### H3 Title: Recent Developments in the Feeding Our Future Fraud Scandal
Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota has been subpoenaed by a Republican-led House committee over a $250 million fraud scheme involving the non-profit Feeding Our Future. The organization is accused of misusing pandemic relief funds intended for child nutrition programs.
#### P Text:
The House Education and the Workforce Committee, led by Chairwoman Virginia Foxx, has issued subpoenas to Walz, Minnesota’s education commissioner Willie Jett, U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, and Agriculture Inspector General Phyllis Fong. The committee is investigating the oversight provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Minnesota Department of Education regarding federal child nutrition initiatives.
#### P Text:
The fraud scheme, which involved Feeding Our Future, has been described as the largest pandemic relief fraud in the United States. Five individuals connected to the fraud have been convicted, and over 70 people have been charged in connection with the scheme. The nonprofit allegedly submitted fake names of children to receive funds, using the money to buy homes, property, luxury vehicles, jewelry, and for travel.
#### P Text:
Governor Walz has defended his administration’s actions, stating that they caught the fraud early and alerted the right authorities. However, a state audit released in June 2024 found that the education department’s oversight was inadequate, creating opportunities for fraud. Walz has acknowledged the need for improvements in oversight and has implemented measures such as installing an inspector general in the education department.
#### P Text:
The subpoena does not require Walz to appear in person before the committee but demands that documents and communications related to the fraud be submitted by September 18. The Democratic vice-presidential nominee has faced increased scrutiny over the state’s handling of the fraud during his tenure as governor.
