Governor Kevin Stitt has issued an executive order aimed at limiting state agencies from converting full-time employees to contract positions to meet the governor’s goal to reduce the number of state employees. He wants to ensure that “contractor conversions” are not costing the state more money than what a full-time employee would.
“Agencies must be fiscally responsible and transparent,” said Stitt. “Transforming staff roles into independent contractors that cost taxpayers more is unacceptable. Oklahomans want smaller government, not government that hides behind gimmicks. We can continue to serve Oklahomans while ensuring that every dollar is spent efficiently.”
Under the order, state agencies will be required to submit a report to the Director of the Office of Management and Enterprise Services (OMES) by April 15, 2025. That information will identify all full-time employees whose roles have been converted to independent contractor positions within the last 12 months. Those reports must also include a financial analysis of whether the conversions have resulted in savings or are costing more.
