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Good morning,
I hope you are doing well! I have some important updates to share following recent news and developments from the past few weeks, which I shared previously.
Housing Stabilization Update
Two weeks ago, I shared details about the state’s Housing Stabilization program, which came under federal scrutiny after an FBI raid targeting dozens of providers. Both homes and businesses were investigated, and the findings revealed widespread abuse of taxpayer funds. Providers were billing the state for services that were never delivered, taking hundreds of thousands of dollars that were meant to help vulnerable Minnesotans.
Last Friday, the Walz Administration announced that the Minnesota Department of Human Services is now moving to terminate the program entirely. This decision follows the FBI investigation and the discovery of serious misconduct. More than 50 payments to providers had already been paused during the review. The fact that the state is terminating the entire program shows just how severe the fraud was.
Ending this program is the right decision. While its original purpose may have been well-intentioned, the lack of oversight and enforcement allowed fraud, waste, and abuse to flourish. Public dollars should be used for real services, not stolen through dishonest billing and fake operations. Taxpayers expect and deserve better from their government.
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Feeding Our Future Update
Another major fraud case in Minnesota continues to unfold: the Feeding Our Future scandal. I’ve mentioned this case several times over the past few months, and if you’re not familiar, I encourage you to read more about it here. This week, the 50th defendant was convicted, marking a significant milestone in what has become one of the largest fraud cases in state history.
This scheme involved the theft of tens of millions of taxpayer dollars meant to feed children during the pandemic. Instead, the money was funneled into luxury purchases, personal expenses, and fake businesses, with little to no food actually provided. These crimes not only drained public resources but exploited a program intended to help our most vulnerable.
I will continue pushing for stronger oversight, clear accountability, and real consequences for fraud. Public dollars must be protected, and Minnesotans deserve to trust that their money is used responsibly.
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Events
The Douglas County Fair is from August 13th-16th, with a packed schedule of events in our district with food, activities, and fun. Take a look ahead of time to make sure you don't miss your favorites here.
If you're a golfer, check out the Osakis Silverstreak's 26th Annual Golf Classic on Saturday, August 16th. Check out the link to register, and golf for a good cause! All proceeds benefit Osakis High School Athletics.
Saturday, September 5th, is the 2nd Annual Osakis Pickleball Tournament. Check the link here to register, or for more information.
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Please Contact Me
If you ever have any questions, comments, or concerns regarding any issue related to state government, please feel free to contact me at either 651-296-3201 or [email protected] I would love to hear from you.
It’s an honor to represent the best!
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2802 Centennial Office Building 658 Cedar Street Saint Paul, MN 55155 [email protected]
651.296.3201 |
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