OK SB1097

Amends 74 O.S. 2011, Section 85.42 to allow the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (DMHSAS) to contract for professional services with physicians, registered nurses, registered pharmacists, and licensed mental health professionals who have separated or retired from state service.

Removes the standard one-year waiting period that normally applies to former state employees before they can be hired as contractors, providing an exemption for DMHSAS specifically.

Requires that contracts with former state employees comply with existing provisions regarding certification that no person involved in contract development while employed by the state shall fulfill services under that contract.

Specifies that retirement eligibility and pension benefits under the Oklahoma Public Employees Retirement System shall not be impaired by contractual service provided under this exemption.

Becomes effective November 1, 2013.