The U.S. Government Accountability Office reported $161.5 billion in improper payments during fiscal year 2024, contributing to a cumulative $2.8 trillion since 2003. These errors span over 2,400 federal programs, including Medicaid, which has a fraud rate exceeding 10%, according to Chris Edwards of the Cato Institute.
Edwards criticized Congress for failing to enforce stricter controls, attributing the issue partly to efforts to simplify benefit access, which inadvertently increases fraud opportunities. The Payment Integrity Information Act of 2019 requires federal agencies to manage improper payments, but many remain noncompliant.
Elon Musk, the Department of Government Efficiency Administrator, has been tasked with creating a plan to combat fraud and improper payments within six months. However, Edwards argues systemic reform is necessary, as noncompliance persists among key agencies, including Defense, Agriculture, and Homeland Security.
With the national debt exceeding $36 trillion, experts warn urgent action is required to prevent further fiscal waste.
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