Oklahoma DPS Offering Employees Voluntary Buyouts Due To Budget Woes

The Oklahoma Department of Public Safety (DPS) is taking drastic measures in order to cut costs in the face of the state’s flagging budget deficit. One proposed measure is to offer employees Voluntary Out Benefits Offers.

Commissioner Michael Thompson sent out a department-wide email outlining the plan. Employees interested are asked to submit a form, but the email states that not all employees who request will receive a buyout. DPS will keep staffing levels enough to maintain operations.

Buyouts include a one-time payment equal to 18 months of employee health insurance premiums, a longevity payment and payment for unused leave.

In addition to the buyout, DPS also announced that the 65th Oklahoma Highway Patrol (OHP) Academy will be suspended and operational costs have been reduced.