The bill amends K.S.A. 75-7427 to enhance the powers and responsibilities of the inspector general within the attorney general's office, allowing for comprehensive investigations and audits of all state cash, food, and health assistance programs. The inspector general, appointed by the attorney general with senate consent, will have original jurisdiction over crimes related to public assistance and the authority to issue subpoenas and conduct investigations. The bill also removes specific references to the state Medicaid program and the state children's health insurance program, thereby broadening the inspector general's oversight capabilities. Additionally, the inspector general is required to report findings of fraud, waste, and abuse to the attorney general and provide annual reports to state agencies and legislative committees.

Furthermore, the bill strengthens protections for whistleblowers by ensuring confidentiality of their identities and prohibiting employers from discouraging reporting of fraud, waste, or abuse. It also establishes that contractors convicted of serious offenses related to fraud or abuse in the Medicaid program will be ineligible for future state contracts unless certain conditions are met. The bill repeals K.S.A. 75-7427 and mandates that all records from the inspector general's investigations remain confidential, thereby reinforcing the integrity of the reporting process and improving the overall accountability of state assistance programs.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 75-7427
As Amended by House Committee: 75-7427
Enrolled: 75-7427