LANSING, MI (AP)-- Michigan caseworkers say a new computer system that launched 10 months ago is riddled with problems that are hampering their ability to protect vulnerable children.
Five frustrated Department of Human Services employees testified to lawmakers Tuesday about using the Statewide Automated Child Welfare Information System.
They report spending too much time entering information into their computer, keeping them from investigating child abuse and visiting foster children.
State officials tell a House budget subcommittee there's a big learning curve, with some workers catching on slowly and others quickly. They also report progress in more quickly fixing glitches and addressing help desk requests.
The federal government requires the computer system. It's also required as part of court oversight of Michigan's child welfare system.