Cuts may result in unpaid furloughs of Oklahoma troopers

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) – The Oklahoma Department of Public Safety is considering furloughs for state troopers and other employees because of budget cuts.

The department said Wednesday it’s considering 23 furlough days for troopers and civilian employees. The days off would affect the numbers of troopers available in addition to driver license testing and implied consent hearings.

DPS’ budget is short by about $11 million because of cuts that were the result of a $1.3 billion shortfall in the state budget.

DPS Commissioner Michael Thompson says he’s asked for a $12 million supplemental appropriation that he said is needed to maintain current staffing levels and operations.

The department has previously offered voluntary buyouts to about 50 employees, implemented a hiring freeze and delayed upgrades to the radio system and the computer and technology network.