Oklahoma Attorney General Calls for Dismissal of Mental Health Commissioner Amid Financial Crisis

May 4, 2025 - 19:19

Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond has urged Governor Kevin Stitt to terminate the state’s mental health commissioner, Dr. Carrie Friesen, following alarming revelations regarding the agency's financial status. During a recent legislative session, it was disclosed that the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services is on the verge of a severe financial crisis, with projections indicating that it could run out of funds as soon as Wednesday.

Drummond expressed serious concerns about the agency’s management and fiscal oversight, suggesting that Friesen's leadership has contributed to the looming financial meltdown. This situation poses significant risks to mental health services in Oklahoma, potentially affecting thousands of individuals who rely on these critical resources.

Legislators are now faced with the urgent task of addressing the funding shortfall and ensuring that mental health services continue to operate effectively. The call for Friesen's dismissal underscores the growing frustration among state officials regarding the agency's financial mismanagement.