OLYMPIA, Wash. — A recent state audit has brought to light significant issues within Washington’s digital navigator program, highlighting what auditors describe as “pervasive failures” and the misuse of public funds.
The Department of Commerce distributed $92 million in grants over three years before deciding to shut down the program.
The audit revealed that executives bypassed state regulations, approved payments without verifying work completion and used grant money for alcohol and first-class tickets. Additionally, there is missing documentation for nearly $11 million.
Interim Commerce Director Sarah Cliff-Thorne addressed the situation in a statement, emphasizing the department’s focus on accountability. “We quickly identified the issues and immediately moved to improve practices,” she said.
In response to the audit’s findings, the Department of Commerce said it has hired an external accounting firm and implemented new oversight reforms to ensure better management and transparency moving forward.
