Lawton, OK – Jeffrey Cartmell, director of Oklahoma Human Services, presented the agency’s performance review and budget request during the Oklahoma House of Representatives Appropriations and Budget hearing on Tuesday morning.
For the state fiscal year 2026, the agency requested nearly $23 million to support increases in waiver programs for individuals with developmental disabilities and vulnerable adults, along with the required state match for the Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP). FMAP provides federal matching funds for state spending on social services and medical assistance.
The agency also requested nearly $1.4 million to transfer to the Oklahoma State Department of Health and the Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office. This funding will complete the transition of staff and programs from the Office of Client Advocacy and Long-Term Care Ombudsman, following Senate Bill 1709’s passage in 2024.
Cartmell emphasized the agency’s commitment to sustaining essential services and maintaining progress in areas such as eliminating the Developmental Disabilities Services waiting list and advancing child welfare reform. He highlighted efforts to build long-term stability while improving support for vulnerable populations.
Oklahoma Human Services continues to focus on expanding access to critical programs through collaboration and innovation, aiming to strengthen services for individuals and families across the state.
