Oklahoma Administrative CodeTitle 675 - State Board of Licensed Social Workers
Oklahoma Administrative Code Title 675 — State Board of Licensed Social Workers
Overview
The State Board of Licensed Social Workers (SBLSW) is the administrative agency charged with regulating the licensing, practice, and professional conduct of social workers in Oklahoma. Title 675 establishes the rules and standards governing the licensing process, ethical conduct, disciplinary procedures, and continuing education requirements for social workers.
Primary Functions of the SBLSW
Licensing and Certification
The Board issues licenses to qualified individuals seeking to practice social work.
It sets educational and experience requirements to ensure licensees meet professional standards.
Renewal of licenses requires compliance with continuing education mandates.
Professional Standards and Ethics
SBLSW establishes ethical codes of conduct and professional standards.
It investigates complaints of misconduct or violations of professional ethics.
Disciplinary Actions
The Board has authority to impose sanctions such as reprimands, suspension, or revocation of licenses for violations.
It conducts hearings to adjudicate complaints against licensees.
Rulemaking and Policy Development
SBLSW promulgates rules governing social work practice to protect public welfare.
It ensures that licensees comply with evolving standards in the profession.
Administrative Role and Authority
The SBLSW acts as a quasi-judicial body, making determinations on license applications, renewals, and disciplinary matters.
It balances public protection with the professional rights of social workers.
Its decisions are subject to review by courts, primarily to ensure procedural fairness and adherence to statutory authority.
Relevant Case Law Principles
While specific Oklahoma cases about Title 675 may not be widely published, general administrative and professional licensing case law principles apply:
1. Licensing as a Privilege and Public Protection
Courts recognize that licensing social workers is a regulatory privilege, granted to protect the public from unqualified or unethical practitioners.
State Board of Social Work Examiners v. Jones (conceptual) — Licensing boards have broad authority to set standards and enforce ethical rules consistent with public interest.
2. Due Process in Disciplinary Proceedings
Licensees facing discipline have a right to notice of charges, a fair hearing, and an opportunity to present evidence.
Doe v. Oklahoma Social Work Board (conceptual) — Due process requires impartial adjudication and reasoned decisions in disciplinary cases.
3. Judicial Review of Board Decisions
Courts give deference to the Board’s expertise but will overturn decisions if they are arbitrary, capricious, or exceed the Board’s authority.
Review focuses on whether the Board followed procedures and supported its findings with substantial evidence.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Description | Case Principle |
|---|---|---|
| Licensing Authority | Grants licenses, sets qualifications and renewals | Regulatory privilege for public safety |
| Professional Standards | Establishes ethical and practice standards | Broad authority for public protection |
| Disciplinary Process | Investigates and adjudicates complaints | Due process rights required |
| Rulemaking | Develops rules governing social work practice | Expertise respected by courts |
| Judicial Review | Courts review for procedural fairness and authority | Deference with checks on abuse |
Conclusion
The Oklahoma State Board of Licensed Social Workers plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and competence of the social work profession. Through licensing, enforcement of ethical standards, and disciplinary actions, it safeguards the public and upholds professional accountability. Courts generally respect the Board’s decisions while ensuring fairness and legality in its procedures.
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