HB 1077 Summary

• Creates the "Certified Forensic Counselors Act" to establish certification standards for counselors providing assessment, evaluation, and treatment services to arrested or convicted offenders

• Requires applicants to hold a master's degree in a behavioral science field, pass a written examination based on national standards, complete 2 years (4,000 hours) of supervised work experience with criminal justice clients, and complete 290 hours of forensic counseling education plus 300 hours of supervised practicum

• Exempts licensed physicians, psychotherapists, clinical social workers, mental health counselors, clergy, and government employees from certification requirements unless they specifically assess or treat criminal justice clients

• Establishes the Oklahoma Association of Forensic Counselors as the certifying board, with authority to issue annual renewable certifications, set fees, and maintain records

• Makes it illegal for uncertified persons to represent themselves as certified forensic counselors or practice forensic counseling; violations are misdemeanors punishable by fines of $500-$1,000 and up to one year imprisonment