LANSING, MI (AP)-- The state is taking steps to offer food aid and other public benefits to people who were cut off because they had warrants for felony crimes.
Federal Judge Judith Levy says people can't be cut off unless they're intentionally fleeing and are being actively sought by police. In January, she said the Department of Health and Human Services had violated federal law by denying benefits.
The Lansing State Journal says thousands of people could be affected. People who were denied benefits will get a letter from the state. Information about the case is also posted at http://aclumich.org/publicbenefits .
The state is appealing Levy's decision.