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State welfare chief on hot seat in dispute over benefits

DETROIT, MI (AP)--   A judge is taking the remarkable step of ordering a state official to court to explain why Michigan has been cutting off public aid to some people accused of crimes. 

Federal Judge Judith Levy ordered the state in January to stop the practice. But the Department of Health and Human Services says computer difficulties and human error have led to more people being disqualified.

Department director Nick Lyon must report to Levy's Ann Arbor court Friday. He's at risk for being found in contempt.

Levy said Michigan was violating federal law by ending welfare benefits for people wanted for felonies. Lawyers argued that many arrest warrants in databases are mistakes.

The judge said the state can't cut off aid unless someone is intentionally fleeing and being actively pursued by police.

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