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SB 396

Oklahoma Board of Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselors; extending sunset date. Effective date. Emergency.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Micheal Bergstrom and 1 co-sponsor

SB 396 extends Oklahoma's alcohol and drug counselor licensing board's authority, preventing regulatory lapse and maintaining professional oversight standards.

Becomes law without Governor's signature 05/14/2025
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Bill Summary · SB 396

Legislative bill overview

SB 396 extends the sunset date for Oklahoma's Board of Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselors, preventing the regulatory body from automatically dissolving. The bill was passed with emergency status, allowing immediate implementation upon the Governor's inaction rather than requiring a signature.

Why is this important

The Board regulates licensed alcohol and drug counselors in Oklahoma, ensuring professional standards and protecting public safety in addiction treatment services. Without sunset extension, the board would cease operations, eliminating licensing oversight and potentially disrupting treatment provider credentials and consumer protections.

Potential points of contention

  • Automatic renewal concerns: Sunset extensions without substantive review can perpetuate regulations that may no longer serve their intended purpose or may be outdated
  • Lack of transparency: The emergency classification and passage without Governor signature suggests limited public deliberation or amendment opportunity
  • Regulatory burden debate: Some may argue licensing boards create unnecessary restrictions on counselor availability, particularly in rural areas with limited mental health services

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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