Senate Health and Human Services Committee Chair Michelle Benson released the following statement:

“I was pleased to receive a call from Acting Commissioner Pam Wheelock last night. Leading an agency as massive and complex as DHS is no easy task, and she should be commended for accepting the challenge. Republicans are committed to working with anyone who is interested in improving eligibility and accountability at the department while continuing to provide critical services to those who need it most. Based on our initial conversation, I am optimistic that Acting Commissioner Wheelock and I are on the same page.

“Last night I also learned that DHS Chief of Staff Stacie Weeks would be resigning. I have worked with Ms. Weeks for many years and I appreciate her passion and her service. I look forward to working with the next chief of staff on our continued efforts to reform DHS and improve the department’s operations.”