#MTGOV DAILY RUNDOWN: Where does the buck stop?

As the state’s chief executive, Steve Bullock is ultimately the one responsible for ensuring that state functions operate well. However, during the governor’s term, there have been several shocking lapses by state officials as well as chronic issues with state agencies that have only worsened under Bullock. One must ask: Where does the buck stop?

Last year, a state audit found 125 accounting errors and a $1 billion overstatement of accumulated depreciation that occurred on Bullock’s watch. It was a “billion dollar mistake.”

“This wasn't just a single accidental oversight. Instead, the problems are deep -- 125 errors and lack of internal controls. Sadly, those controls, had they been in place, according to the audit division, could have caught these problems earlier. In other words, there weren't even controls in place to catch problems.” -Billings Gazette, 7/3/2015

In 2014, a massive data breach occurred when a Department of Public Health and Human Services computer was hacked. The personal records of 1.3 million people were compromised.

“State officials Tuesday said they’re notifying 1.3 million people whose personal data were in a state Department of Public Health and Human Service computer hacked by unknown assailants a year ago.” -Montana Standard, 4/24/2014

“The computer holds information on people using public programs that serve thousands of Montanans, including Food Stamps, welfare payments, Medicaid, home heating aid and child-care assistance, as well as birth and death records and some state employee records."

The records may include names, addresses, birth dates, Social Security numbers, bank account numbers, health diagnoses and drug prescriptions.” -Montana Standard 4/24/2014


Arguably one of the state’s most vital functions is Child Protective Services. However, Montana CPS continues to struggle performing its basic functions as kids fall through the cracks. This issue only appears to be worsening under Bullock.

“The audit report found extensive weakness in Montana Child Protective Service’s documentation, with many intake reports incomplete, and investigations taking much longer than the law allows” -Montana Public Radio, 1/12/2016

“The audit report found more problems with how the cases were handled rather than the number of cases swamping workers. The audit said, as a result of poor documentation, the department is frequently unable to justify the decision it makes when assessing investigation reports of child abuse or neglect.” -Montana Public Radio, 1/12/2016

Coming up tomorrow: Governor Bullock’s failed leadership harms the people of Boulder…