Governor Stitt's recent Contingency Review Board meeting highlighted significant concerns regarding a proposed contract that could obligate Oklahoma taxpayers to a staggering $100 million without clear benefits. The discussions centered on the implications of this contract, particularly its potential to undermine the state's legal obligations to provide mental health services in county jails.

During the meeting, officials expressed strong reservations about the contract, questioning whether it would genuinely improve care for Oklahomans or merely enrich trial attorneys. One official emphasized the need for a thorough examination of the root causes of the current bottleneck in the criminal justice system, which has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. They argued that the proposed contract would divert resources away from addressing these underlying issues, ultimately failing to provide effective solutions for those in need of mental health treatment.

The conversation also underscored the legal requirements for the state to ensure competency restoration for individuals with mental health issues in jails. Officials pointed out that signing the contract could violate state law, which mandates that the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services take custody of individuals for necessary treatment.

As the meeting concluded, the emphasis remained on the importance of finding a sustainable solution to the challenges facing the mental health system in Oklahoma. The officials called for collaboration with consultants to identify and address the root causes of the current system's inefficiencies, rather than committing to a costly contract that may not yield meaningful improvements.

This meeting serves as a critical juncture for Oklahoma's approach to mental health care within the criminal justice system, with the potential to shape future policies and funding decisions that directly impact the well-being of its residents.