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 protections for individuals who report misconduct. 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 establishes the Office of the Inspector General as a direct reporting entity to the commissioner, thereby strengthening accountability within state-funded educational programs.

Additionally, the bill amends various sections of Minnesota Statutes to improve procedures and protections for program participants. It includes provisions for the commissioner to notify participants of sanctions within seven business days and allows for the lifting of sanctions if insufficient evidence is found. The bill also emphasizes the confidentiality of data collected during investigations and ensures that such data cannot be used for civil suits unless initiated by the department. Overall, these changes aim to bolster the integrity of educational programs and protect the rights of individuals involved in reporting misconduct.

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