Personnel investigation leading outside of Transportation

[ridgerunner]

May 18, 3:45 PM EDT
By MARK R. CHELLGREN
Associated Press Writer

FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) -- The investigation into possible abuses of the Merit System protections for state employees from political interference may lead beyond the Transportation Cabinet, Attorney General Greg Stumbo said Wednesday.

Lt. Gov. Steve Pence questioned the motivation behind the investigation and said most of the personnel actions in the Fletcher administration have been proper.

Stumbo said 10 state employees have been designated as "whistleblowers" and given protection from retribution for their assistance in uncovering abuses in the personnel system.

Calls have been received from 50 to 60 people with complaints or offers of evidence of wrongdoing, Stumbo said. And while the investigation centers on the Transportation Cabinet, evidence has been received about potential problems elsewhere in state government. Stumbo declined to identify the other agencies.

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