Gov. Kevin Stitt’s push to bring Oklahoma’s state workers back to the office has run into a wall of logistics and exceptions.
Despite a December executive order mandating in-office work, about a quarter of the state’s 26,000 covered employees remained on hybrid or remote arrangements in the first quarter of 2025. Many agencies cited space limitations or operational needs as reasons for keeping flexible work policies.
The state’s largest agency, the Department of Human Services, reported 82% of its workforce in hybrid or telework roles. At the Department of Environmental Quality, parking limitations and budget concerns led to continued remote options, estimated to save $250,000 during garage construction.
The Office of Management and Enterprise Services compiled the data—though more than 50 agencies failed to respond, including the governor’s own office.
The return-to-office order surprised many state workers, especially after millions in federal funds had upgraded telework infrastructure during the pandemic. Critics say the rigid policy could jeopardize recruitment and retention.
A legal challenge is pending before the state Supreme Court, even as agencies continue to improvise.
Get the deets in Paul Monies’ story here.
More worth reading:
State Auditor’s Report Blasts ODMHSAS
The audit of the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services also reported that leadership at the agency is unable to understand and explain some complex issues within the agency and that employees were forced to sign nondisclosure agreements and discouraged from cooperating with investigations. Commissioner Allie Friessen, who was appointed by Gov. Kevin Stitt and has led the agency since January 2024, is still in charge. [Oklahoma Voice]
Bill Would Limit Superintendent’s License Revocation Power
Oklahoma lawmakers approved a bill that would limit the Oklahoma State Board of Education’s power to revoke teaching licenses. If it becomes law, the bill would require specific reasons for license revocation, such as violation of law or child abuse, and mandate notification to the school district. The action follows controversies surrounding State schools Superintendent Ryan Walters’ handling of license revocations. [The Oklahoman]
OSDE Board Appointees Advance
Three more appointees to the Oklahoma State Board of Education — Michael Tinney, Ryan Deatherage, and Becky Carson — saw their nominations advance despite drama at past board meetings and a senator’s refusal to carry Tinney’s nomination. [NonDoc]
The most common sports team name in Oklahoma is Tigers.
Ciao for now,
Ted Streuli
Executive Director, Oklahoma Watch
tstreuli@oklahomawatch.org
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