Farmer Resigns At Compensation Commission

Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation Commission announced that Executive Director Rick Farmer  resigned effective July 2.

Farmer, well-known in state Capitol circles,  has served as executive director of the newly-reformed system since 2013 and is a long-time public servant who helped to enact the new workers compensation board.  In the past 18 months, the agency says the reform has saved state employers more than $220 million – a savings which will continue annually. Additionally, state government will save $9 million in reduced insurance premiums this year.

Farmer is a former college professor, a former county and district Republican chairman, and was brought into state government when former Speaker of the House Todd Hiett transitioned the State House of Representatives  into Republican control in 2005.

In an unrelated action Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) Shane Curtin received a promotion to Chief ALJ.

Both Curtin and Farmer are incredible resources to the WCC,” said Troy Wilson, WCC Chairman.

“While we’re excited to promote Curtin we are equally saddened to say goodbye to Farmer, who recently announced his decision to leave for the private sector. Farmer was instrumental in the formation of the WCC and we will greatly miss his expertise.”

“Claimant’s cases are being heard faster, allowing them to receive medical care and return to work more quickly. We’ve put a lot of sweat equity into the new system and I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished for the injured workers and employers of Oklahoma,” said Farmer. “I’m confident the new commissioners will continue to succeed in filling the mission of the WCC.”

Farmer joins Chairman Troy Wilson and Commissioner Denise Engle who are stepping down at the end of May. Commissioner Bob Gilliland was recently appointed Chairman effective June 1, 2015.

The recent changes are evidence the organization is maturing as planned,” said Gilliland. “All of these individuals are quality people who worked countless hours to ensure the system would succeed beyond its infancy and for years to come. The WCC is now in a position to welcome new commissioners and a Chief ALJ that can continue to fulfill the vision for the WCC.”