ST. PAUL – A new website is now available for whistleblowers to confidentially report suspected fraud, waste and abuse within Minnesota’s state government.
State Rep. Bernie Perryman, R-St. Cloud, said the launch of MNFraud.com is just one way House Republicans are working to root out tax dollar improprieties running rampant in Minnesota programs, costing taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars.
“Minnesotans work hard for their money and the government owes it to them to make sure tax dollars are used for their intended purposes and are not stolen or otherwise misused,” Perryman said. “This website is just one way we can start cleaning up this mess in our state.”
Perryman said the new website will act as a central platform for Minnesotans to report concerns about suspected or observed improprieties in state program services. Submitted information will be initially assessed and directed to the appropriate authorities for further investigation and follow-up. The information, including the identities of whistleblowers, is secure and protected, similar to a secure-payment processing website, Perryman said.
“Sometimes citizens see something that seems a bit off, but it can be hard to know where to go with that information,” Perryman said. “Now, this website provides a convenient tool for people to file their concerns in one centralized location so someone else can follow up on that tip and take a closer look. It’s really a good way for citizens to take on a watchdog role in government that’s been sorely lacking in Minnesota.”
Minnesota has faced widespread fraud issues in several state-run programs, with hundreds of millions of dollars reportedly misused or stolen through fraudulent claims and mismanagement. Scandals related to Feeding Our Future, childcare assistance, medical aid, and welfare programs all continue to make headlines. Perryman said the common thread is a need for stronger safeguards, transparency, and accountability in managing taxpayer-funded programs.
-30-