This bill amends the Social Worker's Licensing Act in Oklahoma, introducing significant updates to the definitions and qualifications for social work licensure. Notably, the title "Licensed Social Work Associate" (LSWA) is redefined as "Licensed Bachelor's Social Worker" (LBSW), and the composition of the State Board of Licensed Social Workers is modified to require that two members hold licenses as either bachelor's or master's social workers. The bill also extends the Board's existence until July 1, 2026, and clarifies the qualifications necessary for obtaining various social work licenses, specifying that only licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs), licensed social workers with an administration specialty (LSW-ADM), or licensed social workers (LSW) may engage in independent practice, thereby excluding LBSWs and licensed master's social workers (LMSWs).

Additionally, the bill establishes clear regulations regarding the use of social work designations, prohibiting individuals from implying licensure unless they are properly licensed. It replaces the designation "licensed social work associate" with "licensed bachelor's social worker" and emphasizes that providing social work services through telephonic or electronic means is subject to regulation. The bill also introduces penalties for unlawful practice, including fines up to $500 for each offense, and classifies violations as misdemeanors. Importantly, students in approved social work programs are exempt from licensure during required internships or externships. The act is set to take effect on November 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 59-1253, 59-1261.1