Oklahoma Attorney General Mike Hunter is seeking an audit of the State Health Department. The request came after reports of extreme steps by state officials to get personal protective equipment to deal with the COVID-19 outbreak.
Earlier this week, the state canceled a $9.5 million purchase from a company after it came under investigation by the FBI.
Governor Kevin Stitt criticized Hunter, saying he’s disappointed to see the agency entangled in an investigation in the midst of responding to the current crisis.
UPDATE 1:57 p.m.: State Auditor & Inspector Cindy Byrd has agreed to conduct the audit and will assign staff and begin as early as next week.
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Oklahoma lawmakers are returning to the capitol on Monday, May 4.
The Tulsa World reports legislative leaders say they are discussing ways to get the Capitol opened in a manner deemed safe by public health officials and both legislative chambers.
Last month, two legislators and three staffers tested positive for COVID-19.
The legislature still has to formulate and pass a budget for the coming fiscal year starting on July 1 before constitutionally adjourning for the session by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, May 29.
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