Mass. Welfare Chief Promises Changes

The new director of the state agency that oversees welfare benefits has unveiled measures she says are aimed at preventing fraud and waste.

Stacey Monahan, named director of the Department of Transitional Assistance last week, appeared before a legislative panel Tuesday and pledged to continue recently implemented reforms and introduce new ones.

The state Legislature is considering an overhaul to the system following a state auditor's report that found fraud.

The Boston Globe reports Monahan's initiatives include tougher requirements for those who request replacement electronic bank transfer cards and more thorough checks of recipient lists.

She says since December, those seeking a fourth replacement card must meet with department officials to ensure there is a legitimate need. She says that's led to a significant drop in requests for replacement cards.