Oklahoma Employees on Edge Over Payroll Uncertainty Amid Department Mismanagement
OKLAHOMA CITY — Employees of the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse (ODMHSAS) are facing heightened anxiety following conflicting messages regarding their payroll. In a troubling turn of events, thousands were initially informed that the agency would not meet payroll obligations. However, agency officials later reassured staff that payday would proceed as scheduled.
Despite the update, employees expressed deep concern about their financial stability. The Oklahoma Public Employees Association reported a surge in calls from distressed members fearing for their financial security. “How am I going to pay my mortgage? How am I going to pay for my insurance? You know, my medications?” asked Gene Blankenship, deputy director of the association.
In response to growing discontent, Governor Kevin Stitt announced immediate actions aimed at addressing what he termed “financial and operational mismanagement” within ODMHSAS. He revealed plans to enlist an independent financial expert to oversee department finances and appointed an attorney for a comprehensive review of the agency’s operations. Additionally, Stitt directed Oklahoma Healthcare Authority CEO Ellen Buettner to collaborate with ODMHSAS officials to assess both Medicaid and federally funded programs.
The situation has drawn the attention of multiple state leaders, further underscoring the urgency of the matter. KOCO 5 reached out to both Stitt’s office and ODMHSAS for additional comments, but received no response outside of business hours.
Blankenship urged employees to remain in contact with their supervisors and to stay informed about ongoing developments, emphasizing the importance of viewing state workers as crucial assets rather than just numbers.
As employees await clearer communication, the uncertainty surrounding payroll continues to loom large over the agency.
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