Audit finds management weakness in state's welfare, food stamp programs

A state audit Wednesday found problems for the fifth year in a row with how the Department of Children and Family Services oversees and enforces some of its welfare programs.

DCFS did not always keep accurate or complete eligibility documentation for welfare recipients receiving benefits under the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, or TANF, plan, according the the report conducted by the Louisiana Legislative Auditor's office released this week.

The audit identified at least $5,994 in cash benefits issued under the program which were questionable. In a sampling of 25 case files reviewed, there were errors in 12 percent, according to the audit.

DCFS also did not always include documentation verifying work participation hours for TANF's "work-eligible" clients. Five out of 25 sample cases did not include federally required documentation verifying the recipients were working.

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