Texas Flags $4 Million in Questionable Child Care Payments-Here’s What Officials Found

Texas officials say more than four million dollars in child care scholarship payments were flagged as improper, though the state’s error rate remains among the lowest in the nation. The review was ordered by Governor Greg Abbott following a large child care fraud case uncovered in Minnesota. State agencies found the improper payments equal about 0.44 percent of Texas’ child care budget, well below the national average. Of roughly 7,500 providers, 125 were flagged as high risk for review. Abbott has ordered tighter oversight, improved fraud reporting tools, and quicker referrals for prosecution when needed. State leaders say protecting children and tax dollars remains the top priority.