SAINT PAUL, Minn. – Senator Majority Leader Erin Murphy (DFL- St. Paul) and Senator Melissa H. Wiklund (DFL-Bloomington) released the following statements Monday:
Leader Erin Murphy
“Oversight of state agencies and commissioners is a central part of the Senate DFL’s responsibility. That includes direct meetings and exploratory hearings, as well as the confirmation process for Commissioner Gandhi, which was scheduled to begin tomorrow. We will continue our oversight role with incoming Interim Commissioner John Connolly.
Our members have had tough questions for DHS leadership about fighting fraud and protecting the people who need services, and that will continue. Mr. Connolly, Ms. Gandhi and Inspector General James Clark have changed the culture and practices at the Department of Human Services for the better. We are less vulnerable to fraud now than we were a year ago, and we will be less vulnerable next year than we are today.
Our other role in delivering services and protecting taxpayers comes through passing legislation and budgets. We are nearing the conclusion of our hard work on that process, and look forward to working closely with DHS leadership to implement a robust program integrity and fraud-prevention package we will pass this session.”
Senator Wiklund
“I want to thank Commissioner Gandhi for her service during an incredibly complex time,” said Senator Melissa H. Wiklund (DFL-Bloomington), chair of the Senate Health and Human Services Committee. “She and the dedicated staff of the Department have weathered unprecedented uncertainty, and I am grateful for the work they do every day to care for and serve Minnesotans. We have made important advances together for the people of Minnesota, and I know that progress will continue thanks to her steady leadership. Interim Commissioner John Connolly is a tested and knowledgeable public servant who will move us forward with continuity and professionalism as we navigate these challenging waters.”
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