LANSING, Mich. (AP) — State social workers struggling with mounting welfare, food stamp and Medicaid caseloads are afraid for their lives after being assaulted by recipients frustrated with long lines and delays in aid.

Employees of the Michigan Department of Human Services told lawmakers today that they're overwhelmed with bulging caseloads, and people seeking help are taking out their frustration on innocent workers.

The state says it has a zero-tolerance policy against clients who assault employees.

DHS administrators say more workers are needed and that the department's computer system is having trouble handling so many caseloads.

But adding more employees will be tough because of Michigan's budget problems.

The state has the country's highest unemployment rate.