The state would take over county responsibilities for child welfare and human services — including food stamps and Medicaid — under a dramatic proposal from a governor-appointed committee that contends the state is better suited to serve Colorado's neediest people.

Tempers have already flared over the recommendation to have state officials assume the work of 64 county human services offices. The 11 largest counties, which serve three-quarters of Colorado's citizens, have hired a political consultant and launched a letter-writing campaign to lawmakers, hoping to halt the idea before it becomes legislation.

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