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

HB 2018 amends Oklahoma law to include certified physical therapists employed full-time by school districts in the definition of "teacher" for the purpose of receiving the same job protections and benefits as certified teachers. This change directly affects school districts hiring physical therapists, aligning their employment benefits with those of school nurses, athletic trainers, and occupational therapists. The bill updates Section 1-116 of Oklahoma Statutes to define "physical therapist" and specify they must hold current certification and state licensure. It takes effect July 1, 2025, and was designated an emergency measure.