Oklahoma AG Demands Governor Stitt Terminate Embattled Agency Commissioner
In a significant move, Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond has called on Governor Kevin Stitt to remove the current commissioner of the state’s Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (DMHSAS), Justin Brown. This request comes amid escalating concerns regarding Brown’s handling of various issues within the agency, particularly concerning the state’s mental health crisis.
Drummond’s demand is supported by instances of operational failures and mismanagement reported by both state lawmakers and community mental health advocates. They have raised alarms about the declining state of mental health services in Oklahoma, emphasizing the urgent need for effective leadership capable of addressing these challenges.
Governor Stitt’s previous support for Brown has drawn criticism, especially as Oklahoma faces rising mental health issues exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Experts highlight that the state’s mental health resources are being stretched thin, with long waiting lists and insufficient facilities to meet the needs of those struggling with mental illness and addiction.
The Attorney General’s insistence on Brown’s dismissal signals a growing dissatisfaction with the state’s response to mental health services. Advocates argue that the leadership change is critical for rebuilding trust and improving service delivery for residents in need.
As the situation unfolds, all eyes are on Governor Stitt’s next steps. The decision will not only impact the agency’s future but could also reflect broader implications for Oklahoma’s mental health policy, an area that has garnered increasing attention amid calls for reform. The outcome of this standoff between state leadership could be pivotal in shaping the direction of mental health services in Oklahoma.
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