No OKDHS Program Cuts On Dec. 1, Solutions Still Needed

<p>The Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS) will not have to reduce or eliminate service programs for seniors and people with disabilities on Dec. 1 and Jan. 1 as previously planned, the agency announced on Tuesday.</p>

Tuesday, November 21st 2017, 12:29 pm

By: News 9


The Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS) will not have to reduce or eliminate service programs for seniors and people with disabilities on Dec. 1 and Jan. 1 as previously planned, the agency announced on Tuesday.

Gov. Mary Fallin approved $26.9 million in short-term funding for the agency when she kept intact parts of the revised budget bill on Nov. 17, according to a press release issued by DHS Tuesday morning.

"This funding allows us to stop these devastating cuts and continue providing critical services beyond December 1; however, we are still $42 million short of a balanced budget," said Ed Lake, DHS Director.

DHS said it will begin sending official notices this week to service recipients and providers in the ADvantage Waiver program, Adult Day Services, Developmental Disabilities Services (DDS) Adult In-Home Supports Waiver, and DDS Sheltered Workshop and Community Integrated Employment programs, the press release stated.

"We will be working closely with the administration and legislative leaders in the upcoming weeks as they work to develop funding solutions for these services,” Lake said.

Officials say they are working to determine exactly how long the agency can sustain these programs with the current funding. More details are expected in the coming weeks.

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