DENVER (AP) – A major improvement to a state computer system used to process applications and renewals for food stamps, medical aid other state programs is set to be completed by the end of the month.

The Denver Post reports the upgrade that had been promised for last spring is scheduled to be completed by May 31. Information Technology spokeswoman Dara Hessee says the latest delay in the long-troubled Colorado Benefits Management system is meant to give county workers time to become familiar with a new Web interface software.

The $243 million computer system has been plagued by problems.

The Denver Post reports that county directors are also protesting a recent decision to have a private contractor process medical benefits applications.

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