Fraud, Waste and Abuse Prevention
The Fraud, Waste and Abuse Prevention Unit plays a unique and essential role in the State Water Boards’ fight against complex environmental and financial crimes. The Unit is part of the Water Boards’ Office of Enforcement, which specializes in investigating and developing cases where State funds are being used inappropriately or where false information is being provided for monetary gain. The Unit is charged with deterring these activities, working with the Office of the Attorney General and other prosecutorial agencies in pursuit of criminal and/or civil prosecution.
Additionally, the Water Board has the authority to prosecute UST Cleanup Fund cases administratively. People who submit false or misrepresented information (such as reports, certifications, applications, or invoices) are subject to:
- $500,000 fine per violation
- Disqualification from further participation in the UST Cleanup Fund
- Liability for enforcement and prosecution costs
How to Report Fraud
If you think someone is committing fraud, misusing UST Cleanup Fund monies, or intentionally misrepresenting data, it is important to let us know. All allegations of potential fraud are taken seriously, and you can remain anonymous.
Contact us if you think:
- Someone is misusing UST Cleanup Fund monies for personal gain
- Someone is intentionally misleading the UST Cleanup Fund for financial gain
- Someone is taking some benefit to “look the other way”
- Someone is submitting false claims
- Or are aware of suspicious activity and are not sure who to contact
How to report fraud:
- Complete the Fraud Complaint Form and return by Email: ReportFraud@waterboard.ca.gov
- Toll free message line: (855) 263-0863
- Office of Enforcement: (916) 341-5272
- Fax: (916) 341-5896
Disqualified Businesses and Persons
Claimants or consultants that misrepresent information submitted to the UST Cleanup Fund are subject to disqualification from further participation in Water Board financial assistance programs.
Additional Information and News
Factsheet
News Releases (Click on a year to view the year's news releases)
- 2020
- 2019
- 2018
- 2017
- State Water Board Settles More Storage Tank Cleanup Fund Claims Related to Alleged Contractor Negligence
- Aqua Science Engineers to pay $50,000, cease work with State Water Board for Alleged Abuses of Storage Tank Fund
- Settlement of Negligence Dispute Bars L.A.-Based Storage Tank Cleanup Firm from Working with the State Water Board
- State Water Board Settles Storage Tank Cleanup Fund Claims Related to Alleged Contractor Negligence, False Information
- 2016
Contacts
Questions or Comments, send an email to:
- Amantha Henkel Amantha.Henkel@waterboards.ca.gov
(916) 341-5551
Report Fraud
- Email Fraud Complaint Form to
ReportFraud@waterboard.ca.gov - Toll free message line: (855) 263-0863
- Office of Enforcement: (916) 341-5272
- Fax (916) 341-5896