OKLAHOMA – The Oklahoma Department of Commerce is taking action after a recent investigation uncovered abuse in the state’s Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP), including at least $663,000 in questioned or unallowable costs linked to a local provider.
Governor Kevin Stitt announced Wednesday that he directed Commerce to immediately halt the program, administered by the Community Action Agency of Oklahoma City and Oklahoma and Canadian Counties, Inc. He also instructed the Attorney General’s Office to investigate potential violations of state and federal law.
Audit Findings
A forensic audit, prompted by whistleblower reports, revealed mismanagement and misappropriation of program funds. The internal review and third-party audit confirmed at least $663,000 in questionable expenses tied to the local provider. Commerce officials emphasized that no employees within the department were implicated in the audit.
The Weatherization Assistance Program is federally funded through the U.S. Department of Energy and operated locally via contracted service providers. The program provides funding for energy efficiency improvements in homes, particularly for low-income residents.
State Response
Commerce immediately notified the Governor’s Office and Attorney General following the audit’s findings. Governor Stitt stated, “Taxpayer dollars are not a slush fund. When state or federal funds are mismanaged, we are going to stop it, investigate it, and hold people accountable.”
John Budd, CEO of Oklahoma Commerce, emphasized that transparency and responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars remain top priorities for the agency. Whistleblowers who raised concerns were credited with helping uncover the abuse, leading to the suspension of the program and the ongoing investigation.
Key Takeaways
- Oklahoma halted a weatherization program operated by CAAOKC.
- A forensic audit identified at least $663,000 in questionable or unallowable costs.
- Whistleblowers alerted leadership to potential mismanagement.
- The Attorney General’s Office is investigating potential legal violations.
- No Oklahoma Commerce employees were implicated in the findings.
