• ODMHSAS faced a $23 million shortfall, raising concerns about the agency's ability to meet payroll obligations.
• Attorney General Drummond called for the removal of ODMHSAS Commissioner Allie Friesen, citing a lack of satisfactory answers regarding the financial issues.
• Governor Stitt announced immediate actions, including bringing in an independent financial expert and appointing an attorney to review ODMHSAS finances.

The Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS) is currently embroiled in a financial crisis, triggered by a reported $23 million shortfall that threatened the agency's ability to meet payroll. This situation has drawn criticism from Attorney General Gentner Drummond, who has urged Governor Kevin Stitt to remove ODMHSAS Commissioner Allie Friesen. In response, Governor Stitt has announced measures to address the financial mismanagement, including an independent financial assessment and legal review of the agency's operations. The situation has caused concern among state employees, who fear for their livelihoods.

• What: Financial mismanagement and potential payroll issues at the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS).
• Who: Key individuals include Attorney General Gentner Drummond, Governor Kevin Stitt, ODMHSAS Commissioner Allie Friesen, Oklahoma Healthcare Authority CEO Ellen Buettner, and ODMHSAS Deputy Director Gene Blankenship.
• When: The financial issues became apparent around May 2, 2025, with Governor Stitt announcing actions on May 3, 2025.
• Where: Oklahoma, specifically the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS).

The financial problems at ODMHSAS raise serious questions about the agency's leadership and oversight. The differing tones between the news sources reflect the political and human impact of the situation. Drummond's strong criticism suggests a deep concern about the agency's direction, while the reports of employee anxiety highlight the real-world consequences of the financial instability. Governor Stitt's actions indicate an attempt to regain control and address the mismanagement. The independent review is crucial to understanding the full extent of the problems and implementing lasting solutions.

Commissioner Friesen offered no satisfactory answers for the agency’s ability or inability to meet payroll obligations. The commissioner is simply not equipped for the job – and she never was.

The things that we were hearing the most is, is how am I going to pay my mortgage? How am I going to pay for my insurance? You know, my medication.

The financial crisis at ODMHSAS deepens as investigations reveal a $23 million budget shortfall for the current fiscal year, with concerns raised about meeting payroll obligations. The agency's budget discrepancies, with 115 accounts over budget and 66 under, highlight a lack of transparency and poor financial management. Legislative reviews indicate that a significant portion of the original $63 million shortfall remains unexplained. Governor Stitt has initiated steps to stabilize the agency, including bringing in an independent financial expert and attorney to conduct a review. The future hinges on the effectiveness of these interventions, the ability of state leaders to address the underlying issues, and the implementation of stricter financial oversight to ensure responsible spending of taxpayer dollars. Commissioner Friesen stated that the agency is working closely with state leadership to ensure stability for the workforce and continuity of services.