Washington

Management Techniques; Interstate Case Reconciliation (with Oregon)

Description/Goal

Using a computer match of case participants, the neighboring States of Oregon and Washington have identified cases where each state is pursuing the same noncustodial parent for collection of unpaid support or establishment of paternity or an order.

Often times, both states unknowingly appear to be working the same case [i.e., attempting to enforce the same order or establishing a support obligation or paternity for the same child(ren)]. Starting in August 1999, a sample of these cases was reviewed by enforcement staff from both states, who identified situations where the cases can be combined and worked by one state so that duplication of effort can be reduced. Practices will be developed where these cases are identified and combined on an on-going basis.

Workers in both states reviewed cases side-by-side having arranged for access to automated files on shared cases from both states.

Results

Initially, 22,231 cases have been identified where both Oregon and Washington may be duplicating efforts. This includes 8,805 two-state interstate cases, 9,609 cases where both states have cases with the same noncustodial parent but different participants, and 3,807 cases where both states have cases with the same noncustodial parent and the same participants. Anecdotally, and until the test is completed, staff believe the effort has been cost-effective.

Location

Statewide caseload

Funding

Regular Federal Matching funds are used for this project.

Replication Advice

• Involve case staff, systems and policy from both states from the beginning of the process.
• Work hard to develop useful data collection protocols to meet needs of both states. Recognize it is okay if the effort does not result in the perfect data collection instrument. It can be improved upon.
• Be flexible with your plans as priorities may develop in either state which would cause delays in a special project such as this one.