By Trendsetter Tribune 
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has directed state agencies to investigate potential fraud in the state’s child care funding system, following reports of alleged abuse of subsidies in Minnesota.
“Such fraud will never be tolerated in Texas,” Abbott said. “Today, I directed Texas state agencies to take proactive steps to prevent, detect, and eliminate misuse of taxpayer funds to protect the integrity of Texas’ Child Care Services Program.”
The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC), in partnership with the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC), will expand anti-fraud measures and investigate any suspected misuse of funds.
Under Abbott’s directive, agencies will:
- Identify high-risk child care providers and conduct additional site visits
- Review data collection practices related to the Child Care Services Program
- Ensure providers accurately report enrollment numbers
- Verify oversight standards are being applied consistently statewide
- Improve public access to online reporting tools and hotlines for suspected fraud
TWC and HHSC are expected to deliver a progress report on Jan. 30 and a final report on Feb. 27.