Bill > HB1589

This bill establishes an Education Employee Assistance Program (EAP) within the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services to help public school districts support employees facing personal challenges that might impact their job performance. The voluntary program will provide assessment, referral, consultation, and problem-resolution services for school employees and their family members, addressing issues such as medical or mental health problems, substance abuse, emotional challenges, marital difficulties, financial concerns, and other personal problems. The Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services can contract with external entities to implement the program and will be responsible for establishing standards and criteria for these contracts. The Board of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services must create administrative rules, establish evaluation methods, and ensure that the program operates effectively. The bill emphasizes that participation is voluntary and does not interfere with a school district's disciplinary authority. Program records will be kept confidential and separate from personnel files, with only limited exceptions for potential threats to harm. Participants will have the right to access their own records, and the program will not prevent or excuse disciplinary actions against employees. The act will become effective on July 1, 2025, and is declared an emergency measure to be implemented immediately upon passage.

Budget and Finance

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb1589&Session=2600