The accuracy of Montana’s welfare system computer programs came under the microscope Monday at the Legislature

The accuracy of Montana’s welfare system came under the microscope Monday at the Legislature, spotlighted by rare, under-oath testimony from state workers subpoenaed by Republican legislative leaders.

Two welfare workers from Libby and a third colleague from Kalispell who recently retired appeared before a pair of legislative committees, saying the state’s computerized system to verify and approve benefits is woefully inadequate.

"I’m here to speak about the mismanagement and waste I’ve seen over the last two years," said Kirsten Brown, who is the client service coordinator in the state Office of Public Assistance in Libby. "I am not the only employee with these concerns."

By MIKE DENNISON Gazette State Bureau

Read more: http://billingsgazette.com/news/state-and-regional/montana/subpoenaed-welfare-workers-criticize-verification-system/article_3a1f0c09-8de3-523b-a58f-d7c5a32a4476.html#ixzz3PMt90kzt