EXCITING NEWS! The Social Work Interstate Licensing Compact has become law in Oklahoma, making that state the 26th to pass the compact. Once in effect, states in the compact will recognize each other's social work license, enabling social workers to practice in multiple states.
Oklahoma has a critical shortage of social workers, with the state’s supply meeting only two-thirds of the estimated need. Oklahoma’s current supply of licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs) only meets 67% of the state’s estimated need.
By passing HB 2261, Oklahoma will provide social workers the flexibility to provide continuity of care with a license to practice across state lines.
In doing so, Oklahoma could more easily recruit providers from other states and increase its number of practicing social workers. The bill would preserve Oklahoma’s authority over social workers in Oklahoma, regardless of what state issued their license.
HB 2261 maintains oversight of licensed social workers through preserving Oklahoma’s authority to protect public health and safety through the current system of state licensure for social workers. Under the Social Work Licensure Compact, out-of-state licensees would be required to follow Oklahoma’s laws and regulations for social workers.
As of early 2025, 27 states have passed legislation to join the Social Work Interstate Compact.
