Bill > HF2743

This bill modifies various provisions related to the Office of the Inspector General within the Minnesota Department of Education, enhancing its investigative powers and establishing clearer guidelines for investigating potential fraud, theft, waste, and abuse in department programs. The bill expands the definition of fraud, theft, waste, and abuse to include more specific actions, such as obtaining funds through incorrect information, failing to maintain proper records, or misusing grant funds. It provides the Office of the Inspector General with broad access to records and the ability to investigate program participants, including immediate access to records without prior notice. The bill establishes a process for sanctions, including potential program disqualification, with provisions for notice and appeal. Additionally, it creates protections for individuals who report potential misconduct, offering immunity from civil liability and ensuring confidentiality of reporters' identities. The legislation also clarifies data practices surrounding investigations, specifying how investigative data can be used and shared, and outlines procedures for withholding payments when there are credible allegations of fraud or theft. Importantly, the bill explicitly states that these provisions do not authorize reductions in state or federal aid to school districts, charter schools, or libraries.

Education, Justice

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&f=HF2743&ssn=0&y=2025