High Country Times

Education and the Workforce Committee Chairwoman Virginia Foxx has issued a statement addressing efforts to hold Governor Tim Walz's administration accountable for what is described as the "largest COVID-19 fraud scheme in the nation." The case involves allegations of misuse of taxpayer funds intended to feed hungry children.

"A taxpayer-funded program to help hungry children was abused. As a result, children and taxpayers were negatively impacted. This is unacceptable," stated Chairwoman Foxx. She noted that although the USDA Office of Inspector General (OIG) was encouraged to investigate, action only began after the Committee's own investigation commenced. An internal review by USDA OIG identified necessary changes to handle fraud cases more effectively. "The Committee is dedicated to ensuring taxpayer dollars are used efficiently and effectively and will continue to work with the USDA OIG to ensure this fraud doesn’t happen again," added Foxx.

From 2022 to 2024, 70 individuals linked with Minnesota-based Feeding Our Future (FOF) were charged by the U.S. Attorney for the District of Minnesota for allegedly defrauding over $250 million from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). These funds were meant for feeding hungry children. Five individuals have been convicted so far, with charges including federal programs bribery, wire fraud, conspiracy, and money laundering.

The Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) and Summer Food Service Program (SFSP), both funded by USDA, aim to reimburse meals for eligible children through state-administered contracts with meal providers. The Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) administers these programs in Minnesota.

Criminal charges claim that individuals within FOF conspired to falsely claim $250 million in federal Child Nutrition Program funds for personal luxury purchases instead of their intended purpose.

Chairwoman Foxx has been vocal about holding Governor Walz accountable, penning an op-ed on September 26, 2024, criticizing his oversight as "the greatest grift in U.S. history." Additionally, subpoenas were issued on September 4, 2024, targeting both Walz’s administration and related federal entities like USDA and its Office of Inspector General.

Earlier in June 2024, Foxx along with other committee members requested information from Minnesota Commissioner of Education Willie Jett regarding MDE's involvement in administering these programs.