The bill amends Section 2 of the Administrative Workers Compensation Act in Oklahoma, introducing several key updates to definitions and statutory language related to workers' compensation. Notable insertions include clarifications of terms such as "actually dependent," "carrier," and "child," which now cover a wider range of individuals and circumstances. New definitions are also introduced, including "continuing medical maintenance," which outlines the types of medical treatment covered after maximum medical improvement, and "gainful employment," which refers to the ability to perform full-time work for wages. Additionally, the definition of "employee" is expanded to include members of the Oklahoma National Guard and authorized emergency service volunteers, while exclusions are specified for certain temporary workers without financial compensation.

The bill further refines the definition of "employer" to include various entities, ensuring that the provisions of the Administrative Workers Compensation Act apply broadly. It also replaces references to "the State of Oklahoma" with "this state" in the definitions of "Insurance Commissioner" and "Insurance Department." The definition of "major cause" is clarified to ensure it does not negatively impact the exclusive remedy provisions of the Act, and the term "scientifically based" is introduced to set standards for medical testing and treatment. Updates to disability definitions include a new standard for "permanent total disability," based on objective findings and the inability to earn wages in suitable employment. The bill is scheduled to take effect on November 1, 2025.