This bill seeks to enhance the oversight and investigative capabilities of the Office of the Inspector General within the Minnesota Department of Education. It introduces new provisions that grant immediate access to records during investigations, classify investigation-related data as confidential, and establish immunity for individuals who participate in these investigations. The bill also clarifies definitions of fraud, theft, waste, and abuse, and outlines a structured process for notifying program participants of sanctions, including the right to appeal. Notably, it includes specific language regarding the sharing of personal student contact information for special education services and designates the Office of the Inspector General as a direct reporting entity to the commissioner.

Significant amendments to existing statutes include the inclusion of the Office of the Inspector General in the list of agencies with law enforcement functions and the expansion of definitions related to fraud and abuse to encompass actions that could lead to unnecessary costs for department programs. The bill mandates that the commissioner notify program participants in writing within seven business days of imposing sanctions and introduces guidelines for withholding payments from those suspected of fraud or theft, requiring prompt notification and a clear appeal process. Overall, these changes aim to strengthen the integrity of educational funding, ensure due process for program participants, and protect whistleblowers, thereby enhancing accountability within the Department of Education.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 13.32, 13.82, 120B.021, 120B.117, 127A.21, 127A.49, 268.19