HOUSE BILL ANALYSIS

                 HB 1822

Title:  An act relating to a pilot program to investigate welfare fraud in Pend Oreille county.

Brief Description:  Creating a pilot program to investigate welfare fraud in Pend Oreille county.

Sponsors:  Representatives McMorris, Sump, Boldt, Mulliken, Carrell and Schoesler.

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON

CHILDREN & FAMILY SERVICES

Meeting Date:  February 18, 1997.

Bill Analysis Prepared by:  Doug Ruth (786-7134). 

Background:  The Department of Social and Health Service's Office of Fraud Investigations investigates fraud in all programs administered by the department.  The office has over 80 staff members assigned to six regions across the state.  As of last year, 10 staff members were assigned to the Region 1 office in Spokane.

Summary of Bill:  A pilot project is created to allow Pend Orielle County to investigate local public assistance fraud. Upon request of the county commissioners, the department is directed to enter into a one-year contract with the county to conduct fraud investigations.  After the agreement expires, the department will evaluate the effectiveness of contracting with a county to conduct investigations. 

Appropriation:  $60,000.

Fiscal Note:  Requested February 17, 1997.

Effective Date:  Immediate.  Sections one and two expire on July 1, 1998.