A new dedicated phone line allows whistleblowers to report wrongdoing in government.
The new fraud, waste and mismanagement hotline is now up and running. The toll-free hotline enables citizens to report alleged fraudulent or wasteful acts involving state resources, including theft, embezzlement, or inappropriate use of state resources.
"Judging by the results that are occurring in the other states it will be successful in helping the state really make sure that taxpayer money is being used wisely."
Co-author of the bill ( Wisconsin Act 126 ), Senator Julie Lassa ( pronounce ) (D-Stevens Point), says 25 other states have such hotlines. The Steven Point Democrat says Ohio managed to reclaim millions of taxpayer dollars.
"Ohio has really been successful where during the first six years of that hotline being in place they had around 640 reports come in and they were able to reclaim about $16-million back to the state treasury."
Lassa, also a member of the Legislative Audit Bureau Committee , says that agency will follow up on tips, or refer the info to the appropriate authorities in state government for further investigation. Lassa says the cost is minimal, considering a dedicated phone line already existed at the audit bureau. Lassa reminds us, by law each caller's identity will be kept confidential. The bill was recently signed into law by the governor, and the phone line and website are now up and running. Just call 1-877-FRAUD-17.
The 2007 Wisconsin Act 126 was co-authored by Representative Steve Wieckert ( pronounce ) (R-Appleton).
AUDIO: Jackie Johnson report (1:41 MP3)
