DOJ investigating MS DHS food stamp report from consultant

DOJ investigates Mississippi Department of Human Services over food stamps consultant

The department first hired consultant Julie Osnes in 2011 to help improve its SNAP error rate, which, if low, can earn the state cash incentives. Federal investigators have discovered that through consultants like Osnes, states have manipulated their reported numbers, making them unreliable.

Mississippi could have to pay back millions in bonuses it earned while using Osnes’ services — at least $5.93 million between 2012 and 2015.

Clarion Ledger
11/29/17