AUGUSTA -- The public will get a chance to comment later this month on a report that shows inadequate cash management practices at the state Department of Health and Human Services.

The Legislature's Office of Program Evaluation and Government Accountability released a report recently that concluded better cash management could result in the department keeping $2.6 million annually that would have otherwise been overpaid to community groups that provide human services.

Also, better collection efforts of overpayments would result in "a one-time infusion of $960,000 from full collection of balances already owed," according to the report.

The report also found:

* Financial data for decision makers was lacking, but improvements are being made.

* Appeals of cost settlements take time and money, and may be avoidable.

The department planned to spend $187 million in fiscal year 2007 and $185 million in fiscal year 2008 on agreements with community-based providers, according to the report.

In a written response to the report, DHHS Commissioner Brenda Harvey wrote the department has established an accounts-receivable group in charge of collecting money owed to the department.

She also noted staffing continues to be an issue.

"An ongoing challenge has been the limited number of people available to do the work," she wrote.

The Government Oversight Committee, a group of legislators that oversees the state's program evaluation office, will take public comment on the report at 10 a.m. July 30 in Room 202 of the Cross State Office Building.

Susan Cover -- 623-1056

scover@centralmaine.com