On Monday, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) announced $26.5 million in awards to help California counties combat fraud in the state's In-Home Supportive Services program, KPCC's "KPCC News" reports ("KPCC News," KPCC, 12/21).
The grants will support 45 California counties that have developed plans to assist in statewide data sharing and fraud investigations (Branan, Fresno Bee, 12/21).
Officials estimate that the anti-fraud effort could help reduce state spending by about $130 million in the current fiscal year.
The state also plans to curb IHSS fraud by:
- Conducting unannounced home visits for IHSS recipients;
- Expanding anti-fraud training for county social workers; and
- Requiring background checks, fingerprinting and additional documentation for IHSS caregivers ("KPCC News," KPCC, 12/21).
Funding for the $26.5 million anti-fraud effort will come from the state's General Fund, federal matching funds and county matching funds.
Of the 45 counties receiving awards, 29 will receive immediate funding and 16 will receive the funds upon completion of their anti-fraud plans.
A list of the awards is included in an Office of the Governor release (Office of the Governor release, 12/21).