Frankfort, Ky. (July 9, 2024) – Auditor Allison Ball and Ombudsman Jonathan Grate issued a joint demand letter to Secretary Eric Friedlander of the Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) and Governor Andy Beshear. The demand letter seeks restoration of full access to iTWIST, a database containing information pertinent to ensuring that Kentucky's most vulnerable populations receive the government services that they need.
The Commonwealth Office of the Ombudsman moved to the Auditor's Office on July 1, 2024, and, in part, conducts systemic investigations of CHFS concerning employees and public service programs. Access to iTWIST is essential for the Ombudsman to perform its job to the full extent as required by the law and was previously available to the Ombudsman staff prior to the transition. However, despite numerous discussions in preparation for the transition, CHFS now opposes the Ombudsman's full and direct access to iTWIST after July 1, 2024.
“Kentucky's children, elderly, and those in need deserve public servants who will work diligently for their benefit, not create barriers," said Auditor Ball. “I am hopeful CHFS will restore access to the iTWIST system so the Ombudsman's Office can advocate for citizens and ensure that those seeking public services receive fair treatment."
Until this matter is resolved, the Auditor and Ombudsman have also issued an evidence preservation letter directing the Cabinet to refrain from destroying any iTWIST records or the iTWIST system that existed prior to and after the transfer of the office.
Read the full demand letter here.
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