Resignations and personnel issues this past week within the Department of Human Services (DHS) have more clearly revealed systemic dysfunction and chaos. After two deputy commissioners resigned, followed by Commissioner Lourey and his chief of staff, the need for an independent review of the department has been reaffirmed.  After Commissioner Lourey and chief of staff resigned, the two deputy commissioners rescinded their resignations. This demonstrates chaos at the very top. Gov Walz has responsibility for the functioning of this agency but we will do our part of oversight.

After widespread fraud and other waste and abuse was found in DHS programs in the past few years, we clearly needed and insisted that the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) become independent from DHS to complete a full and unbiased report of the agency.

Leadership at DHS is not taking internal issues seriously and making obvious attempts to cover up or silence reports of fraud. A DHS employee recently submitted emails citing concerns of the legality of some of the agency contracts, and she was escorted from her office.

It is unacceptable that an employee making attempts to reveal misconduct within the department should undergo that kind of treatment. We have seen two whistleblowers from two administrations make attempts to reform DHS from within, but these attempts have been silenced.

From now on, the Office of Inspector General (currently held by Carolyn Hamm under investigative leave since March…investigation still not started) should be accountable to the Governor so OIG can be open to hearing reports from employees and complete an honest report to the governor and legislature that will lead to real reform within the agency.

Fraud and waste are running rampant within DHS and we need the help of employees to reveal everything they have witnessed so reform can begin from the ground up.

Because of employees fear of retribution, the Senate Republicans have established a website for whistleblowers from DHS or other state agencies to safely report any concerns. If you or anyone you know has information to share, please visit: www.mnsenaterepublicans.com/mnwhistleblower. We will ensure complaints are forwarded properly but kept anonymous.

One of our top priorities here at the Senate is to reduce the waste and abuse that has grown within our state departments. As chair of the State Government Finance committee, I will continue to advocate for the best use of your taxpayer dollars. We will not allow this fraud to spread and are committed to reining in unnecessary spending to provide better services to all Minnesotans.