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Connecticut DMV Commissioner Stepping Down Following Computer Issues

HARTFORD, Conn. (CBSNewYork/AP) -- Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner Andres Ayala Jr. is stepping down following various problems with a computer system upgrade.

A revamping of the DMV under Ayala's direction led to horrendous wait times for customers and a snafu involving motor vehicle registrations, WCBS 880's Connecticut Bureau Chief Fran Schneidua reported.

Many fully registered drivers were left without the ability to drive legally. Ayala said some registrations were wrongly suspended due to the computer upgrade. The upgrade, unveiled in August, has also led to lengthy wait times at DMV offices.

State Representative Gail Lavielle of Wilton told WCBS 880 her constituents complained loudly to her about the problems and that it was time for a change in leadership.

"This is a wonderful time to identify the source of the problems clearly, to bring in solutions and then for someone to be put in the seat who has real executive experience managing a state agency," Lavielle said.

Ayala's resignation came after the Hartford Courant took legal steps to interview the commissioner after he sought to hire a friend with a felony record to the staff of the DMV.

Gov. Dannel Malloy, who appointed the former Bridgeport state senator and social studies teacher in December 2014, said Wednesday he appreciated "all the work he's done in so many different capacities both at the local and state levels."

(TM and © Copyright 2016 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2016 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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