Duval Times

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Rick Scott has raised concerns about the oversight and regulation of special needs trusts in a letter addressed to Social Security Administration Commissioner Martin O’Malley. The letter comes in the wake of allegations of fraud and misappropriation of $100 million by the founder of the Center for Special Needs Trust Administration in Pinellas County, Florida.

In the letter, Senator Scott expressed his dismay, stating, "I was recently made aware of a heartbreaking issue in Pinellas County, Florida, involving the alleged misappropriation of $100 million by the founder of the Center for Special Needs Trust Administration (“CSNTA”)."

Furthermore, Senator Scott emphasized the need for action to protect families from fraud, noting, "The families impacted by this alleged criminal behavior have rightly raised questions about the oversight of these organizations and I write to you today to echo those concerns and urge you to take action that protects these families from fraud."

Regarding accountability, Senator Scott highlighted the importance of ensuring that those responsible for misconduct are held accountable, stating, "While the CSNTA’s founder faces criminal and civil investigations for his apparent fraudulent misappropriation of trust monies, and I expect him to be held accountable in a manner which not only punishes criminal activity but also makes the victims of any crimes whole, I also expect the Social Security Administration to act and ensure oversight."

Senator Scott outlined specific questions for the Social Security Administration in his letter, seeking information on oversight practices, actions taken in response to the CSNTA issues, coordination with state agencies, review frequency of trust organizations, and monitoring of trust administration.

The Senator concluded the letter by requesting prompt attention and response to the inquiries raised, emphasizing the importance of transparency and accountability in the oversight of special needs trusts.