OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- The Oklahoma State Department of Health has proposed large budget cuts through layoffs and program cuts.
The Oklahoman reports that the proposal would cut the department's budget by about $17.8 million, twice the amount the Legislature demanded. The plan would lay off nearly 200 employees and could end grants to child-abuse prevention programs and health centers.
Department officials acknowledged in October that the department was struggling to make payroll.
The Legislature gave the department $30 million to help stabilize the situation. But it also required the department to create a corrective plan and cut its budget by 15 percent, or $8 million, by July 2019.
The State Auditor's Office, a grand jury and federal officials are investigating the department for alleged overspending and shifting of money.
Information from: The Oklahoman, http://www.newsok.com
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