People in democrats raise reimbursement rates for fraud-prone child care program are represented in a Legislature considering changes connected to Frogtown.
A 2019 investigation found that CCAP fraud did take place, alleging that schemes to defraud the program were "more than the $5 to $6 million that prosecutors have been able to prove." The Democrat-controlled chamber passed HF 13, which will fund increased reimbursement rates for providers who participate in the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), by a 69-59 vote.
The program exists to help low-income families afford child care, which is more expensive in Minnesota than most states.
A fiscal note for the bill estimates that the increased reimbursement rates and other appropriations will cost the state $354 million in the 2024-2025 biennium and $590 million in the 2026-2027 biennium.
According to a House research summary, CCAP is a “federal-state program that subsidizes the child care expenses of eligible low-income families while parents are working or participating in a training or education activity.” Ahead of the vote, Rep.
Anne Neu Brindley, a Republican from North Branch, pleaded with her colleagues to vote against the bill.
Citing a 2019 investigation into CCAP fraud, she argued that nothing has been done to prevent more potential fraud.
“The problem here is that after all these years, we still have not gotten answers and have [not] had resolution to the issue of fraud in the system,” she said on the House floor.
As the measure advances, residents of Frogtown can follow amendments and contact Samakab Hussein regarding the final language.
Article Source: Alpha News: “Democrats raise reimbursement rates for fraud-prone child care program”
