Now former state Rep. Nick Zerwas (R-Elk River) demanded greater accountability from the state’s Department of Human Services (DHS) in November.
"While I appreciate the good-faith efforts Commissioner (Jodi) Harpstead is making to clean up the agency and restore public trust, at some point we must determine whether there are consequences for violating the laws we have in place," he posted on Facebook. "If the agency is unwilling to hold employees accountable, then it may be time for law enforcement to step in."
A social media post from the Minnesota House Republican Caucus said Zerwas called on the Ramsey County attorney to evaluate DHS.
Minnesota Rep. Nick Zerwas (R-Elk River)
A recent investigation of DHS found numerous overpayments by the agency, including one to Indian tribes for opioid addiction treatment.
In addition, the Star Tribune detailed at least 200 instances where DHS was found to have violated state law to the tune of $52 million in contracts and grant commitments to vendors, Indian bands and other state government agencies without proper documentation.
Zerwas announced in November he was resigning from his position effective Dec. 6 following an heart surgery. A special election is scheduled for Feb. 4 for his seat.
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