The Oklahoma Department of Human Services announced Wednesday how it will slash $69 million from its budget to make up for funding lost when the cigarette tax was struck down.
Several programs will be eliminated Dec. 1, including a waiver program to provide home care for frail seniors and disabled adults. DHS estimates doing away with the ADvantage Waiver Program would save more than $36 million, but the move could force more than 10,000 people into nursing homes.
Cuts to programs helping disabled adults and seniors account for more than 70 percent of DHS proposed reductions. They include short-term, daytime care to give caretakers a break or keep their jobs, meal delivery, legal services, cleaning, and employment.
Another $3 million would be saved by extending a freeze on child care subsidies. DHS said that could leave low-income parents of 700 children choosing between quitting their jobs or using substandard care.
"We remain optimistic the Legislature will take the steps necessary to replace the $69 million in our budget to avoid these unconscionable cuts," DHS Director Ed Lake said in a statement.
DHS is also proposing $7 million in internal cuts. Those include holding vacancies open, eliminating jobs tied to programs that will be cut and closing county offices.
