(INDIANAPOLIS) - Gov. Mike Braun has created a new state council aimed at rooting out fraud, waste, and abuse in Medicaid and other federally funded social services programs administered by Indiana.
Braun signed an executive order Monday establishing the Council on Fraud Detection and Prevention, directing state agency leaders to give heightened scrutiny to programs that distribute federal dollars. The move follows large-scale fraud cases in Minnesota involving child nutrition and child care programs -- systems Indiana also operates.
Braun said the council is intended to formalize oversight efforts already underway and prevent loose administration that can encourage fraud and drive up costs.
The council will review several major programs, including Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, the Women, Infants and Children program, the Child Care Development Fund, the Older Youth Initiative, and special education services.
Agency heads will meet at least quarterly to coordinate detection and prevention efforts and to recover improperly used funds. The council must submit an annual report by Nov. 1 to the governor, the attorney general, and state lawmakers.
Indiana's Office of Inspector General will continue its existing role investigating fraud, waste, and abuse within executive branch agencies. Braun said the new council adds focus rather than replacing current enforcement mechanisms.
The governor said both beneficiaries and service providers will face increased scrutiny, warning that confirmed fraud cases could result in criminal or civil penalties.
Braun's office also highlighted recent cost-saving efforts across state government. The Department of Revenue stopped or adjusted more than $90 million in fraudulent individual and business tax returns and identified over 10,000 stolen identities. The Department of Administration reported sharp increases in competitive procurements and statewide purchasing agreements, while the State Personnel Department said eliminating long-vacant positions saved administrative costs.
Braun said the initiative is part of a broader effort to protect taxpayer dollars while ensuring programs remain available for Hoosiers who rely on them.