The proposed bill establishes the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) in Minnesota, an independent entity responsible for ensuring accountability and integrity within state agencies. The Inspector General will be appointed by the governor based on recommendations from the Legislative Inspector General Advisory Commission and will serve a five-year term. The bill outlines the qualifications for the Inspector General, including a relevant bachelor's degree and at least ten years of professional experience. It grants the Inspector General the authority to conduct investigations into fraud and misuse of public funds, issue subpoenas, and publish reports on findings. Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for data classification, ensuring that investigation-related data remains confidential while active, and mandates public reporting on completed audits.

The bill also creates the Legislative Inspector General Advisory Commission to recommend candidates for the Inspector General position and review the office's effectiveness. It includes appropriations from the general fund to support the OIG's operations for fiscal years 2026 and 2027 and amends existing statutes to clarify definitions related to fraud allegations. Certain duties related to fraud investigations in various departments will be transferred to the OIG, and specific statutes regarding the previous inspector general's office will be repealed. The bill emphasizes the importance of protecting sensitive data and prohibits retaliation against individuals reporting misconduct, while also establishing a fair process for program participants to contest any sanctions imposed by the Inspector General.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 3.971, 15A.0815, 609.456, 142A.03, 142A.12, 144.05, 245.095, 256.01