The bill mandates a performance audit of the program integrity measures within Washington's paid family and medical leave program. A new section is added to chapter 50A.05 RCW, which requires the state auditor to evaluate the effectiveness of current integrity measures, including fraud protections and eligibility verification standards. The auditor may engage an independent expert to assist in this evaluation. The audit will assess the implementation of these measures, the recovery of improperly granted benefits, and the clarity of claim information provided to employers and employees.
Additionally, the auditor is tasked with making recommendations for improvements to the program's integrity measures, benefit recovery methods, and communication strategies. Progress reports are required by December 1, 2026, and June 30, 2027, with a final audit report due by December 1, 2027. The section establishing these requirements will expire on December 31, 2027.