County proposes Deficit Reduction Act compliance policy; commissioners back policy to meet federal deadline

Heather Bridal, Jefferson County finance director, presented a proposed Deficit Reduction Act Compliance Policy on Oct. 14 intended to satisfy requirements triggered when an entity receives more than $5 million in Medicaid funds.

Bridal said the policy defines processes for reporting suspected fraud, waste or abuse, summarizes penalties under the federal False Claims Act and informs employees of state and federal reporting options and whistleblower protections. She said the county will also add plain-English guidance to personnel rules and provide training and education to staff in departments exposed to Medicaid program risks, such as human services and public health.

Commissioner concern and follow-up: Commissioners supported passing a compliance policy to meet an upcoming deadline (noted as Nov. 3 in staff discussion) but asked staff to confirm the document’s alignment with recently enacted state whistleblower laws and to return with any recommended amendments. Commissioners also discussed training and potential budget impacts for more compliance education and monitoring.

Board action: Commissioners voted to move the proposed policy forward; staff said the county will make the compliance submission by the planned deadline and follow up with potential amendments after legal review and stakeholder input.

Ending: County staff said they will implement employee training, add the policy language to personnel rules and return to the board if legal review indicates amendments are needed.