U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R), joined by Sens. John Kennedy (R-LA), Rick Scott (R-FL), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), and Marsha Blackburn (R-RN), has introduced new legislation aimed at strengthening oversight and accountability in federally funded child care programs following major fraud scandals uncovered in Minnesota.
The legislation, titled the Stop Fraud by Strengthening Oversight and More Accountability for Lying and Illegal Activities (Stop Fraud by SOMALIA) Act, would impose tougher penalties on child care providers found guilty of fraud and create immigration consequences for non-U.S. citizens involved in such schemes.
"The Minnesota scandal has exposed a deep-rooted, morally bankrupt fraud empire, and more must be done to rid our nation of these heinous criminals," said Cornyn. "I applaud President Trump for his efforts to end this corruption. I'm proud to take it a step further with the Stop Fraud by SOMALIA Act."
The bill would amend the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act to mandate permanent debarment from all federally funded child care programs for providers who commit fraud. It also requires repayment of misspent funds and mandatory referrals for federal criminal investigations.
States would be required to enforce these penalties and prevent bad actors from evading accountability through restructuring or name changes.
Sen. John Kennedy sharply criticized the abuse of taxpayer funds, stating, "Americans are the most generous people in the world. That's why I was so disgusted when I saw scammers...take advantage of the American people's kindness and rob them blind under the guise of 'childcare.'"
In addition to financial penalties, the legislation introduced immigration consequences for fraudulent providers who are not U.S. citizens.
These individuals would be deemed inadmissible and deportable, barred from asylum or adjustment of status, and subject to mandatory detention and expedited removal if involved in fraud or terrorism-related activity.
"Families deserve to know what their taxpayer dollars are being used for," said Sen. Rick Scott. "The Stop Fraud by SOMALIA Act delivers accountability by permanently barring bad actors who steal public funds."
Supporters argue the legislation is necessary to prevent future abuse of childcare assistance programs and to ensure federal funds intended for children and working families are not diverted through fraud.
