Assemblyman Brian Maher (R,C–Walden) is calling for immediate corrective action following a newly released audit from New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli that uncovered widespread oversight failures, questionable Medicaid payments and compliance violations within social adult day care (SADC) programs.

The comptroller’s audit identified $285 million in questionable Medicaid payments, including $28.5 million paid to providers terminated for cause, which can include fraud, waste or abuse. Additional findings detailed improper payments lacking documentation, serious certificate of occupancy violations and failures to complete required assessments and service plans for vulnerable seniors properly.

Assemblyman Maher praised Comptroller DiNapoli for his independent investigation and law enforcement coordination that led to criminal charges in a related case involving $120 million in alleged Medicare and Medicaid fraud.

“Growing up, Assemblyman Maher, the youngest of five children, was raised alongside three seniors with disabilities who participated in these same types of day programs,” said Meghan Hurlburt, chief of staff. “He knows from personal experience how important these services are and how vulnerable seniors, especially those with developmental and physical disabilities, need our protection. These programs are lifelines for families. We must ensure they are run with integrity, accountability and proper oversight.”

Assemblyman Maher stated he will work with colleagues to advance reforms that strengthen oversight and protect both vulnerable New Yorkers and taxpayer dollars.

“Safeguarding essential services and rooting out waste, fraud and abuse must be a shared priority,” Hurlburt added. “Assemblyman Maher stands ready to work with partners to ensure these critical programs remain strong, transparent and accountable.”