Oklahoma Senate Bill SB1739

Oklahoma 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/2/26
• Refer: 2/3/26

Caption

Schools; prohibiting the embedding of social workers in public school districts and charter schools. Effective date. Emergency.

Summary

SB 1739 would prohibit the Oklahoma Department of Human Services from embedding social workers in public school districts and public charter schools. It also requires that any social workers already placed in those school sites on the bill’s effective date be removed. The bill is framed as a school-related measure and creates a new section of law to be codified in Title 70 of the Oklahoma Statutes. The bill sets an effective date of July 1, 2026, but also includes an emergency clause stating it should take effect immediately upon passage and approval. As introduced, it would directly limit a state agency’s ability to place social workers inside public schools and charter schools, affecting both the Department of Human Services and any school sites currently receiving those services through that program.

Impact

If enacted, SB 1739 would add a new prohibition to Oklahoma education law barring the Department of Human Services from embedding social workers in public school districts and charter schools. It would require the removal of any social workers already stationed in those schools, thereby ending or sharply restricting an existing school-based social work presence funded or coordinated through DHS. The bill would affect public school districts, public charter schools, and the state agency responsible for human services, while leaving other school support services untouched unless they are tied to embedded social workers.

Sentiment

The available record shows no committee transcript or recorded votes, so there is no direct evidence of debate or bipartisan support in the materials provided. The bill’s introduction and emergency clause suggest the sponsor views the measure as urgent and necessary. The absence of discussion makes the overall sentiment difficult to gauge beyond the fact that the bill was formally advanced to second reading and referred to the Education committee.

Contention

The main point of contention is likely the role of social workers in schools: supporters may view the bill as limiting outside influence or state agency involvement in school operations, while opponents may see it as removing a support service for students. Another likely issue is whether DHS should be allowed to provide embedded social work services in schools at all, especially in districts that may rely on those services for student mental health, family support, or crisis intervention. Because there are no transcripts or votes included, the specific arguments of legislators or stakeholders are not documented in the provided materials.