Washington DC - Interim Attorney General Eugene A. Adams announced today that the Child Support Services Division (CSSD) passed federal data reliability and performance standards for 2005 - saving the District more than $2 million.
The federal government selected 200 cases at random to ensure that reported performance information was accurate and reliable. Federal auditors evaluated CSSD’s computer system to determine if it accurately reflected court orders for child support. By passing the audit, the District avoids federal penalties for inaccurate data. CSSD will receive $598,507 in Federal incentives for its performance in 2005, and is now eligible for federal financial incentives for: paternity establishment, orders, current collections, arrearage collections, and cost effectiveness.
“The audit results are a key indication of the improved performance and success of the Child Support Services Division. But most importantly, it means more children are getting the financial and medical support they need,” said General Adams.
Deputy Attorney General for CSSD, Benidia Rice, says it could not have been done without the dedication of CSSD staff. “CSSD support staff, attorneys, and management made this success possible. However, we are not resting on our laurels. Everyone is doing their part to make sure CSSD continues to meet federal reliability and performance standards.”
The District had been penalized each year from 2002 – 2004 for poor performance. The penalties took the form of a reduction to the District’s TANF (Temporary Assistance to Needy Families) grant of 1% to 3% each year, totaling more than $4 million.