Waste Hotline Summary Report, May 28

SALEM, OR — Secretary of State Bev Clarno released the Government Waste Hotline report, an annual report that summarizes the activity of the hotline as required by state law. The Oregon Audits Division administers the Government Waste Hotline, a toll-free hotline through which public employees and members of the public can report waste, inefficiency, or abuse within state government. The hotline was established in 1995 and has since identified approximately $16 million in questioned costs. Those dollars represent misappropriated funds, questionable expenditures, monies not spent in accordance with laws, errors in federal awards, and potential savings that could result from improving efficiency or eliminating waste and abuse. For calendar year 2019, the hotline:  Received 272 initial reports. Of those, 44 required further investigation. The majority of allegations were not substantiated. Two reports remain open and may result in a management letter to the involved agencies. Of the 44 reviewed, 27 pertained to the business practices and financial management of state agencies. Nine alleged fraud or theft, either by the misuse of resources or a conflict of interest on the part of a specific state employee. “Tips are still the most consistent way we detect fraud,” said Secretary of State Bev Clarno. “The Government Waste Hotline is an important tool to help us ensure government is serving the citizens fairly and efficiently.” If you know of or suspect any fraud, waste, or abuse affecting state funds or resources, call the hotline at 1-800-336-8218. Professional operators are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Or report online at fraud.oregon.gov. Any person reporting such acts shall remain anonymous. Read the full report on the Secretary of State website.