DSS, Revenue Roll Out New Safeguards After Fraud Scandal

(Pierre, SD) — South Dakota lawmakers finally have some answers on last year’s string of state fraud cases. Officials from the Department of Social Services and Department of Revenue testified to the state’s Government Operations and Audit Committee this week. DSS Secretary Matt Althoff admitted the fallout from Lonna Carroll’s case created a “guilty-by-association” problem, while Revenue Secretary Michael Houdy outlined new safeguards, including multi-personnel approvals and tighter access to financial systems. GOAC Interim Chair Taffy Howard said the committee will keep pushing for accountability, and DSS is still waiting for next year’s launch of the BISON Audit System to help prevent future fraud.