Legislative auditors say a newly implemented computer system for unemployment taxes and claims is so complex that it's difficult to use by New Mexicans seeking jobless benefits and the computer's cost has more than doubled to $48 million.
The audit released Friday by the Legislative Finance Committee criticized state oversight of the Workforce Solution Department's computer system, which was financed by federal money.
Committee members said they've heard numerous complaints about the system from unemployed people.
Sen. George Munoz, a Gallup developer and contractor, said his office has been plagued with problems trying to electronically file reports required of employers.
Workforce Solutions Secretary Celina Bussey described the computer modernization project as a success but said the agency was continuing to try to make it more user-friendly.
Copyright 2013 The Associated Press.