OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) — The head of Washington’s Department of Social and Health Services is leaving her post for a nonprofit organization.
Officials said Wednesday that Secretary Susan Dreyfus is scheduled to take the new job in January. She plans to work through the special session that starts in November, saying she wants to help the department and state emerge from the troubles caused by the recession.
Dreyfus spoke earlier this week about potentially drastic cuts the agency may have to take to help fix the state’s budget shortfall, including the elimination of most substance abuse care.
Gov. Chris Gregoire says Dreyfus’ departure is a loss to the state. Dreyfus has been named president and CEO of Wisconsin-based Families International, Inc.
