Argall: Hire more welfare fraud investigators

State Senator David G. Argall ( R- Schuylkill/ Berks) wants to boost the number of investigators dedicated to rooting out welfare waste, fraud, abuse and misuse.

Argall’s amendment to House Bill 1618 will require the Of fice of Inspector General (OIG) to hire 50 percent additional staff to better investigate welfare fraud cases and tips.

“Reports have shown that each welfare fraud investigator in the OIG is able to uncover $1.28 million in overpayments and fraudulent activity,” Argall said.

“These social assistance programs are in place to help people with a genuine need; they are not there for someone to swindle the taxpayers.”

Argall said it’s a matter of accountability and ensuring the cheaters are caught.

“Taxpayers are rightfully frustrated that their hard- earned money goes to individuals who make a career of swindling the welfare system,” Argall said.

“With these additional resources, the OIG can better protect tax dollars and make sure that only the truly needy receive the support which they deserve.”

The amendment was approved by the Senate by a bipartisan vote of 34 to 15.

Anyone who has information regarding welfare fraud is encouraged to call the OIG’s toll free welfare fraud tipline at 1-800-9320582.