Sweeping changes recommended for state's largest agency.
State lawmakers are announcing a sweeping reform plan for the Department of Human Services.
Representative Jason Nelson of Oklahoma City says one recommendation calls for citizen advisory panels to monitor each of the agency's divisions.
"These changes and having these citizen panels that really can focus on the different major program areas of the agency, you'll see services begin to improve as recommendations are made," Nelson told reporters.
Other recommendations include the governor appointing the D.H.S. director, abolishing the Commission for Human Services, and an agency worker certification program.
Department of Human Services spokeswoman Sheree Powell says the proposed reforms signal a new horizon for the embattled agency.
"All of our workers, particularly in child welfare, have been energized by the fact so many people have come toether in this state to support them," Powell said.
The recommendations come in the form of five Legislative bills. At least two of those could be heard in a House conference committee on Tuesday, May 15th.
