St. Paul Reporter

State Representative Josh Heintzeman has issued a statement in response to recent reports of fraud within Minnesota’s state-funded Housing Stabilization Program. The statement comes amid growing concerns about the scale of fraudulent activity affecting state programs.

“Minnesotans work hard and expect their tax dollars to be used wisely. Instead, we’re rapidly approaching $1 billion in confirmed fraud across state programs while taxes continue to rise. That’s not just frustrating, it’s unacceptable,” Heintzeman said.

Heintzeman, a Republican from Brainerd, has frequently raised concerns with his colleagues about what he describes as widespread fraud and insufficient oversight in government programs.

“For far too long, fraud has been treated like a footnote instead of the crisis it is. It’s no wonder people feel they aren’t seeing a return on their investment in state government when so much of it is being funneled into the pockets of criminals,” he stated.

He also emphasized the impact on vulnerable groups who rely on these services. “The worst part is that it’s often our most vulnerable neighbors, the elderly, disabled, and those working hard to stay on their feet, who lose out on critical services. When fraud takes over, it’s those who need help the most who pay the steepest price.”

Heintzeman concluded by calling for reforms: “We need stronger oversight, tighter enforcement, and a serious commitment to ending this epidemic of fraud. We were able to make real strides during last session, but there is clearly a lot more work that needs to be done, and I'm determined to see it through.”

Heintzeman serves as the Republican Chair of the House Environmental Finance and Policy Committee and has advocated for increased accountability and trust in public institutions.