Oklahoma Probes Mental Health Agency Amid Budget Crisis

Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt has named a special investigator to examine the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS) after a $43 million budget shortfall and broad concerns about financial and contracting practices. This appointment brings the total to four ongoing investigations into the agency, including probes by the State Auditor, Legislative Office of Fiscal Transparency, and a special House committee. Commissioner Allie Friesen has requested a $6.2 million supplemental appropriation to avoid service disruptions and has attributed some issues to past leadership. Lawmakers are questioning why mental health challenges persist despite $800 million in annual funding and have raised concerns about provider billing disparities and executive pay. The agency has also faced confusion over recent contract terminations with major Tulsa-area providers and scrutiny of Friesen's credentials. Friesen has pledged full cooperation with all investigations.