Schools; definitions; granting physical and occupational therapists certified teacher benefits; effective date; emergency.

HB 2018 amends Oklahoma law to include physical therapists and occupational therapists employed full-time in schools within the legal definition of "teacher" for benefit purposes. This means these professionals, who must hold current certifications and state licenses, will now receive the same legal protections and benefits as certified teachers in school districts. The bill takes effect July 1, 2025, and applies specifically to school-employed therapists meeting the certification requirements.