Community health workers; creating the Oklahoma Community Health Worker Act; providing for voluntary certification. Effective date.

SB 362 creates Oklahoma's Community Health Worker Act, establishing a voluntary certification program for community health workers through the State Department of Health. It defines certified community health workers as trusted frontline staff who connect communities to health services, identify resource gaps, and build health capacity through education and advocacy. The bill requires the Health Commissioner to set standards, exams, and fees for certification while allowing reciprocity with tribal and Indian health systems. The law takes effect November 1, 2025, directly affecting community health workers seeking formal recognition in Oklahoma.