Oklahoma Mental Health Department Faces $23M Payroll Crisis

Oklahoma's Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services faces a critical $23 million budget shortfall, leaving it unable to meet payroll for May 7 and threatening essential mental health services across the state. Lawmakers, including House Speaker Kyle Hilbert and Majority Leader Mark Lawson, expressed frustration at the agency's lack of timely communication, noting that just days before the shortfall was revealed, the department had assured them no cash flow issues would arise before the end of May. The department's commissioner, Allie Friesen, stated she only became aware of the problem on April 30 and is working with state officials to address the crisis. Legislative leaders have criticized what they describe as systemic mismanagement within the agency and have launched investigations to determine the cause and accountability. House Democratic Leader Cyndi Munson and other officials underscored the risk this poses to vital mental health and substance abuse services for Oklahomans, warning that underfunding could lead to higher long-term costs and reduced support for vulnerable citizens. Efforts are underway in the legislature to craft an emergency funding solution while ensuring oversight and transparency moving forward.