News Release
Chair Schomacker Statement on Kare 11 Report Alleging Fraud in HSS Program
St. Paul, MN—State Representative Joe Schomacker (R–Luverne), co-chair of the Human Services Committee, issued the following statement today reacting to a Kare 11 investigative report that uncovered allegations of fraud and forged signatures within the Housing Stabilization Services (HSS) which is a Medical Assistance benefit that helps those with disabilities and seniors find and keep housing.
“The allegations of fraud, forged signatures, and the theft of millions in taxpayer dollars outlined in this report are maddening,” said Schomacker. “They highlight the urgent need for the Department of Human Services and lawmakers to continue working together to root out waste, fraud, and abuse, especially within the Housing Stabilization Services program.”
KARE 11’s investigation revealed that an HSS enrollee was billed over $14,000 in Medicaid claims from August 2023 to April 2024, despite never interacting with a provider. Another enrollee reported that a provider forged his signature on a housing consultation form.
“Minnesotans are generous people who want to help those in need,” Schomacker continued. “Unfortunately, it appears that we are once again being taken advantage of. Taxpayers have had enough. That’s why we are delivering real reforms in our budget bills that crack down on fraud and restore accountability in public programs.”
Kare 11 has confirmed that DHS has opened investigations into many of the providers named in the story and others.
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