Bill > SB6344

This bill establishes a new office of fraud and accountability within the department of children, youth, and families (DCYF) to detect, investigate, and prosecute illegal activities within the department's programs. The office will be led by a director with experience in law enforcement and public administration, who will report directly to the secretary of DCYF and ensure all complaints are investigated and referred for prosecution or recovery when wrongdoing is found. This office will also operate a 24-hour hotline for complaints and will conduct independent investigations, recommend policies to prevent fraud and abuse, analyze benefit delivery systems, and report to the legislature on its progress and any identified barriers. To facilitate its work, the office will have prompt access to information and records from various state government entities, including the department of revenue and the employment security department, and will also have access to child care records under specific conditions. Information gathered by the office will be kept confidential, and any unreasonable refusal to provide requested information will be reported to the secretary.

Labor and Employment

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=6344&Year=2025&Initiative=false