For Immediate Release June 24, 2010
(Madison) The nonpartisan Legislative Audit Bureau (LAB) today released its report summarizing and highlighting the activities of its Fraud, Waste, and Mismanagement Hotline. Established in April 2008, the hotline offers the public, public employees, and contractors with a confidential means to report suspected fraud, waste, mismanagement, and other improper activities within the scope of state government.
Senator Kathleen Vinehout (D-Alma) and Representative Peter Barca (D-Kenosha), co-chairpersons of the Joint Legislative Audit Committee, described the hotline as an important oversight tool for promoting good government at the state level.
“The Hotline gives people a way to blow the whistle on suspected bad actors without the threat of retaliation,” Senator Vinehout said. “With the tips given via the Hotline we can indentify problems and follow-up with action necessary ensure taxpayer dollars are properly spent.”
Any individual may report concerns related to state government activities to LAB by calling the toll-free hotline at 1-877-FRAUD-17, by mail, or though a secure Web-based reporting form available at www.legis.wisconsin.gov/lab. By law, the identity of the individual will remain confidential.
“Using the Hotline, citizens can play an active, front-line role in stamping out fraud and waste in our government,” Representative Barca said. “This report speaks to the value of the service and shows that the calls are receiving thorough attention. I encourage anyone to report areas of concern to the Legislative Audit Bureau for further review.”
Of the 79 hotline reports received by LAB in 2009, 53 were specific to state programs. LAB resolved 16 of the reported concerns, 19 remain under review, and 18 could not be substantiated with available information or required no further action.
Copies of the 2009 report on hotline activity may be obtained from LAB’s Web site at www.legis.wisconsin.gov/lab or by calling (608) 266-2818.
