House Bill No. 2261 establishes the Social Work Licensure Compact in Oklahoma, which aims to streamline the interstate practice of regulated social workers. The bill outlines the compact's purpose, including improving public access to social work services, reducing duplicative licensing requirements, and enhancing public health and safety protections. It defines eligibility criteria for states wishing to join the compact and sets procedures for social worker participation, including licensing and disciplinary actions. The bill also creates a Social Work Licensure Compact Commission to oversee the compact's implementation, ensuring that member states maintain specific licensure standards and allowing for mutual recognition of licenses across states.

The legislation introduces a framework for issuing Multistate Licenses to social workers, enabling them to practice in multiple member states while retaining state authority over their own laws and regulations. It details procedures for licensees changing their home state and establishes the Commission's governance, including financial management and rulemaking authority. The bill emphasizes the importance of maintaining the integrity of the licensing process and includes provisions for severability, ensuring that the compact remains effective even if some parts are deemed unconstitutional. The compact will take effect on November 1, 2025, after being enacted by at least seven member states.