Neighbors,
It was a busy week of committee hearings at the capitol. The Veterans Committee, which I chair, met Thursday to hear a few non-controversial bills. We also were formally introduced to Major General Jon A. Jensen, the new adjutant general of the Minnesota National Guard.
If you followed the news this week, you may have seen new developments in two significant, ongoing scandals facing the governor’s administration. You can read more about those below. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
The latest developments with MNLARS
The DMV debacle was in the headlines again this week, as Gov. Dayton finally took responsibility for the failed roll out of MNLARS. I hope his comments are not empty words and that he plans to make the serious, structural changes necessary to finally get the MNLARS mess cleaned up.
Even though the legislature’s options are limited when it comes to changing executive branch programs, there are some things we can do. This week, we introduced a new bill that would overhaul Minnesota’s IT agency, MN.IT, which is responsible for the failed development of MNsure and MNLARS.
Under our plan, the MN.IT would no longer be responsible for every software development and IT project by default. Instead, each project would be subject to a competitive bidding process. Each agency would then get to choose the best developer for the job. Our plan will save money and help us avoid another MNLARS disaster by requiring accountability and transparency.
Keep an eye on www.mnsenaterepublicans.com for the latest updates on MNLARS.
Elder abuse auditor report
This week, the Legislative Auditor released a scathing report on the Office of Health Facilities Complaints’ (OHFC) failure to adequately protect residents of senior care facilities throughout Minnesota. OHFC has been under fire for months after it was reported that thousands of allegations of abuse and neglect were ignored.
The results of the auditor’s report were not surprising for anyone who has had a loved one who felt the pain and helplessness of abuse with no one to turn to. However, it is important to continue shining a light on OHFC and their failure to execute their only mission.
This report and its recommendations will be an important guide as we continue working to reform OHFC and protect our elderly and vulnerable friends and loved ones.
In the meantime, if you or someone you know has been abused, please don’t hesitate to file a complaint. They are completely caught up on their backlog, so your complaint should be handled in a timely manner.
Information on how to file a complaint can be found by clicking here.