Oklahoma House Bill HB1340

Oklahoma 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/7/23

Caption

Schools; exempting certain school psychologists or psychometrists from completing certain competency examination; effective date; emergency.

Impact

The implementation of HB1340 is expected to have a significant impact on the certification process of school psychologists and psychometrists. By removing the competency examination requirement for a subset of qualified professionals, the bill aims to facilitate a quicker pathway to obtaining certification. This change could potentially help alleviate staffing shortages in schools by making it easier for licensed counselors to take on roles that require school psychology credentials. In light of ongoing discussions about mental health resources in educational settings, this bill may amplify the availability of licensed mental health services in schools.

Summary

House Bill 1340 introduces amendments to the existing legislation concerning the certification of school psychologists and psychometrists in Oklahoma. This bill exempts certain individuals from the requirement of completing specific competency examinations that are typically necessary for certification. Notably, those who are licensed professional counselors and have completed the National Counselor Examination will no longer need to take the full competency examination that was previously mandated under Sections 6-187 and 6-190 of the title. This adjustment is meant to streamline the certification process for professionals who already meet other rigorous standards in counseling and mental health services.

Contention

While supporters advocate for the bill as a means to enhance accessibility to necessary mental health professionals in schools, there may be concerns around the removal of competency assessments. Critics might argue that competency examinations ensure that professionals are adequately prepared to address the psychological needs of students. The balance between ensuring enough qualified professionals and maintaining high certification standards may emerge as a point of contention as the bill moves through the legislative process. Furthermore, the emergency clause aims for the bill to take effect promptly, suggesting urgency in addressing these educational staffing needs.