Bill No. 1651, introduced by Senators Stanley and Miller, amends the Oklahoma Allopathic Medical and Surgical Licensure and Supervision Act, focusing on updating licensure processes and broadening exemptions. Key changes include the introduction of a special training license for postgraduate training, which can be renewed annually, and the establishment of a physician emeritus status without associated fees. The bill clarifies that the Board cannot deny a license based solely on the experimental or nontraditional nature of practice and mandates that international medical graduates demonstrate English proficiency through certification by the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG). Additionally, it allows the State Board to require up to 24 months of Board-approved graduate medical training for international applicants.

The bill also modifies the Oklahoma Athletic Trainers Act by updating the membership of the Athletic Trainers Advisory Committee, establishing new licensing and renewal procedures effective January 1, 2027, and introducing national criminal history background checks for applicants. It shifts penalties for violations from a misdemeanor with specified fines to allowing the State Board to impose penalties as authorized under existing statutes. Furthermore, the bill repeals certain reporting requirements related to medical malpractice and foreign medical applicants, while enhancing accountability through new reporting requirements for claims of personal injury against healthcare practitioners. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the licensure process and improve regulatory oversight in Oklahoma's healthcare system, with an effective date of November 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 59-493.1
Committee Substitute: 59-493.1, 59-493.2
Floor (Senate): 59-493.1, 59-493.2
Engrossed: 59-493.1, 59-493.2