Senate Bill No. 880 amends the existing law regarding the Oklahoma Board of Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselors. The bill re-establishes the Board, which will consist of seven members appointed by the Governor with Senate approval. Key changes include the elimination of certain educational requirements for board members, specifically the previous stipulation that required members to hold a master's degree or higher. Instead, the bill mandates that five members must be licensed alcohol and drug counselors at the time of their appointment, while one member must be certified as an alcohol and drug counselor. Additionally, the bill updates the language regarding the appointment process and the qualifications of board members, ensuring that they have at least three years of experience in the field.

The bill also clarifies the composition of the Board by specifying that one member will represent the general public and outlines the reasons for which members may be removed from office. Furthermore, it establishes that all members will serve five-year terms, with provisions for filling vacancies and the possibility of reappointment for two consecutive terms. The bill declares an emergency, allowing it to take effect immediately upon passage and approval, emphasizing the urgency of these changes for the public's health and safety.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 59-1873
Floor (Senate): 59-1873