Oklahoma Mental Health Agency Faces Crisis: Commissioner Ousted Amid Financial Controversies
The Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS) is under intense scrutiny following a series of financial scandals and dysfunction within the agency. Governor Kevin Stitt appointed Allie Friesen as commissioner in March 2024, tasking her with reforming the troubled department. However, her tenure quickly spiraled into chaos.
Friesen raised concerns in March 2025 about significant issues in the agency’s fund allocations, attributing them to previous leadership. By April, the situation worsened; ODMHSAS requested $6.2 million in supplemental funding as audits revealed a shocking $43 million budget shortfall. Lawmakers’ investigations proliferated, with a special committee launched to address the financial turmoil.
Despite Friesen’s assurances, the agency disclosed a $23 million gap just before payroll was due, generating mounting frustration among lawmakers. Repeated hearings failed to provide clarity on ODMHSAS’s fiscal management, leading to accusations of mismanagement.
In response, Governor Stitt appointed attorney Robert McCampbell as special counsel to oversee an independent investigation into the agency’s practices. A damning report from State Auditor Cindy Byrd later revealed a $28 million shortfall, criticizing both current and former leadership for ineffective communication and oversight.
On May 30, 2025, after weeks of mounting pressures and investigations, lawmakers took the unprecedented step of formally removing Allie Friesen from her position. The vote was overwhelming, signaling widespread discontent with her handling of the agency.
As ODMHSAS grapples with leadership changes and the fallout from these financial scandals, state officials aim to stabilize the agency and restore public confidence in mental health services across Oklahoma.
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