In a recent bipartisan meeting of the Michigan Legislature, lawmakers expressed serious concerns regarding the performance of the Mitten reporting system, developed by Tyler Technologies. The discussions highlighted a growing frustration among legislators, who overwhelmingly voted to restructure the reporting process due to the system's inadequacies.

The meeting revealed a consensus that the Mitten system is not functioning as intended. One legislator emphasized that the claim of the system working is misleading, stating, "The problem is that Tyler Technologies is not able to get this running in the fashion that we expected." This sentiment was echoed by multiple members, who underscored the importance of transparency regarding the system's failures. They noted that under state law, accurate reporting is not just a preference but a requirement, and the current structure has hindered compliance.

Despite some claims that the system is operational, with a few legislators successfully submitting filings, the overall sentiment was one of disappointment. One representative pointed out that only about 30 legislators had even attempted to use the system, raising questions about its reliability and accessibility.

The discussions also touched on the broader implications of the system's failure. Legislators reflected on the challenges of implementing such a complex system, suggesting that the task may have been too ambitious given the resources and capabilities available. This introspection indicates a desire for accountability and a commitment to finding a more effective solution moving forward.

As the Michigan Legislature grapples with these issues, the urgency for a functional reporting system remains clear. Lawmakers are expected to continue exploring alternatives to ensure that the state's reporting obligations are met, emphasizing the need for a system that truly serves the public interest. The outcome of these discussions will likely shape future legislative actions and the relationship between the state and technology providers.