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Bill

HB 3328

Professions and occupations; Behavioral Health Act of 2026; effective date.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mike Osburn

Oklahoma establishes or modifies behavioral health profession licensing and practice standards to regulate mental health and addiction treatment service providers.

Second Reading referred to Rules
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Bill Summary · HB 3328

Legislative bill overview

HB 3328, the Behavioral Health Act of 2026, appears to be Oklahoma legislation addressing professions and occupations related to behavioral health services. Based on the title structure, it likely establishes or modifies licensing, regulation, or practice standards for mental health and substance abuse professionals in the state. The bill is currently in the early legislative process, having just completed first reading and been referred to the Rules Committee.

Why is this important

Behavioral health professions regulation directly affects access to mental health and addiction treatment services for Oklahoma residents. Clarifying professional standards, licensing requirements, and scope of practice can either expand access to care by allowing qualified practitioners to work more flexibly, or restrict it by imposing additional requirements. This legislation could impact workforce availability during a period of national behavioral health service shortages.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of practice boundaries – Defining which behavioral health professionals can perform certain treatments may conflict between professional groups (therapists, counselors, social workers, psychiatrists) competing for practice authority
  • Licensing and credential requirements – Stricter requirements could limit workforce supply, while looser standards may raise quality concerns
  • Insurance and reimbursement implications – Changes to professional definitions may affect which providers insurance companies cover, impacting both practitioners and patients' access to affordable care

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

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