Legislature slaps restrictions on who can oversee Oklahoma’s mental health settlement agreement

OKLAHOMA CITY – Amid ongoing turmoil, the Oklahoma Senate on Wednesday passed a bill that appears to require someone other than the state’s current mental health commissioner to oversee compliance with a landmark mental health settlement agreement.

Under House Bill 2513, which heads to Gov. Kevin Stitt’s desk, the official tasked with overseeing the implementation of the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services’ settlement agreement must be a medical doctor or hold a doctorate degree.

Allie Friesen, Oklahoma’s current mental health commissioner, has a master’s degree, according to a press release announcing her appointment in January 2024.

Sen. Brenda Stanley, R-Midwest City, said Dr. Jason Beaman, who serves the mental health department’s chief medical officer, has agreed to oversee the court-required improvements. He will ensure timely competency restoration services are delivered for criminal defendants awaiting trial. 

Legislature slaps restrictions on who can oversee Oklahoma’s mental health settlement agreement • Oklahoma Voice