Psychology; definitions; prescriptions; criteria; certification; licensed psychologists; immunity; prescription certificate; rules; effective date.

HB 1173 allows licensed psychologists in Oklahoma to prescribe psychotropic medications (like antidepressants or anti-anxiety drugs) under new certification rules. It creates two types of certificates: a "conditional" certificate requiring supervision by a physician for initial prescribing, and a full "prescription certificate" enabling independent prescribing after meeting strict requirements. To qualify, psychologists must complete a specialized master's in psychopharmacology, pass a national exam, and complete 450 hours of training in areas like pharmacology and clinical assessment, plus supervised clinical practice with at least 100 patients. The bill takes effect November 1, 2025, and applies directly to licensed psychologists seeking to prescribe these medications.