OK SB486

School district boards of education may contract with chaplains to perform school counselor duties.

Chaplains are exempted from meeting certification requirements under Sections 6-122.3 and 6-187 of Title 70 and are not considered teachers under the Oklahoma Statutes.

"Chaplain" is defined as an ordained or authorized pastor, minister, priest, or other ecclesiastical dignitary of any denomination duly ordained or authorized by their church.

Chaplains hired under this provision must be subject to a national criminal history record check as required by Section 5-142 of Title 70.

The act becomes effective July 1, 2025, with an emergency clause allowing it to take effect upon passage and approval.