The bill establishes an Office of Fraud and Accountability within the Department of Children, Youth, and Families in Washington State. This office is tasked with the detection, investigation, and prosecution of unlawful acts within the programs administered by the department. The secretary of the department is responsible for employing qualified personnel for the office, which will be led by a director selected by the secretary. The director will ensure that all complaints related to fraud or abuse are thoroughly investigated and will establish a 24-hour hotline for citizens to report such issues. The office will also conduct independent investigations, recommend policies to prevent fraud, and analyze current benefit delivery systems to ensure they are used appropriately.

Additionally, the bill amends existing law to grant the Office of Fraud and Accountability prompt access to necessary records and data from various state departments to facilitate investigations. It also clarifies that investigators can access original child care records with consent or a court order, while ensuring that all gathered information remains confidential as required by law. The bill includes a reporting requirement for the office to update the legislature on its development and any barriers it encounters by December 31, 2027. Notably, the bill deletes previous language regarding access to child care records, streamlining the process for investigators.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 74.04.014