The Office of Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises (OMWBE) is responsible for administering a federal program designed to level the playing field for disadvantaged businesses. Unfortunately, some companies are abusing the program.
Rep. Sharon Tomiko Santos of Seattle introduced legislation – HB 1674 – that would give the OMWBE the direct authority to investigate and punish those who commit fraud. Fraudulent contractors not only steal from taxpayers, but they also hurt all of the other small businesses who work hard and play by the rules. Gaming the system creates an uneven playing field.
Susannah Frame (@SFrameK5) with KING 5 has a Fraud on the Job series that exposes contractors who cheat the system to gain government contracts.
She spoke with Rep. Santos earlier this week to talk about the goals of her legislation.
The legislation also provides severe penalties that the state could impose for those caught defrauding the government and taxpayers. They range from fines to debarment from state contracting altogether.
“This legislation clearly says if you violate the law, then the agency has at its disposal the tools and the clear authority to enforce the law and in fact to disbar you from the game if you don’t play nice,” said Rep. Santos.