Bill > SF3447

This bill creates an Office of the Inspector General (OIG) as an independent state entity responsible for ensuring accountability, transparency, and integrity in state government operations. The inspector general will be appointed by the governor with recommendations from a bipartisan Legislative Inspector General Advisory Commission, serving a five-year term with the ability to conduct investigations into fraud and misuse across state agencies. Key provisions include establishing minimum qualifications for the inspector general, defining powers and duties such as conducting audits and investigations, maintaining a public tip line for reporting fraud, and having broad access to government data and the ability to subpoena records. The bill requires the inspector general to be nonpartisan, operate independently, and submit annual public reports. The OIG will have the authority to investigate fraud in various state programs, including Medicaid, child care assistance, and food support programs, while working collaboratively with existing agency investigative units. The office is set to become fully operational by September 1, 2026, with provisions for transferring existing inspector general staff and investigations from various state departments. The bill also includes detailed guidelines for data practices, conflict of interest provisions, and protections for employees who report potential misconduct.

Government Affairs

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&f=SF3447&ssn=0&y=2025