RELEASE: Statement from Chair Torkelson on MNLARS Investigation Report

HANSKA, MN—Rep. Paul Torkelson, R-Hanska, issued the following statement regarding today's report on an investigation into a key MN.IT employee. The 108 page report is the most detailed information lawmakers have received to date on what led up to the botched rollout of the Minnesota Licensing and Registration System (MNLARS).

"It's clear that an appalling lack of communication and leadership at many levels resulted in the DMV disaster that Governor Dayton is now asking taxpayers to help clean up," Torkelson said. "This report raises major new questions about when and how key decisions were made and when those decisions were ultimately disclosed to legislators and the general public. If the governor wants additional funding for this project, we expect to see a comprehensive plan, a recounting of how internal processes have changed to correct the management failures outlined in the report, and improved transparency so we can begin to rebuild trust."

Torkelson said the report also raised questions about the ability of MN.IT to handle other large-scale projects, including many currently under development.

"There are several major projects currently under development by MN.IT that will cost taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars. Unless the Governor and MN.IT leadership can offer guarantees or firm reassurances that other projects are not heading down a similar path, we need an honest conversation whether it's financially and logistically prudent to continue relying on MN.IT for these complex IT endeavors," Torkelson concluded.

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