Oklahoma voters will be asked in November whether changes should be made in governance of the Department of Human Services, a state agency that has undergone criticism, lawsuits and turmoil.

If approved, State Question 765 would eliminate the nine-member commission currently leading DHS under constitutional authority and replace it with four advisory boards created by legislation last session. Also, Gov. Mary Fallin would be granted the authority to hire and fire the executive director of DHS, a power currently granted to the commission.

Opponents of the measure say it will make DHS, an agency responsible for the welfare of Oklahoma's at-risk children and aging adults, vulnerable to the political whims of lawmakers and governors.

Proponents of the ballot measure, including the Senate author of the legislation, say the change in the state constitution is essential for the continued progress of an agency stymied by scandal in recent years.