This bill establishes the Office of the Inspector General in Minnesota, an independent entity designed to enhance accountability, transparency, and integrity within state agencies and programs. 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 qualifications for the inspector general, including relevant educational and professional experience, and ensures that the office operates free from partisan influence. It grants the inspector general the authority to conduct investigations, issue subpoenas, and access various data classifications, while also mandating that state agencies and nonprofit organizations highlight fraud reporting tools on their websites. The new provisions will take effect on January 1, 2026.

Additionally, the bill creates the Legislative Inspector General Advisory Commission to recommend candidates for the inspector general position and review the office's effectiveness. It requires the inspector general to issue public reports on completed investigations and maintain a system for anonymous fraud reporting. The bill also includes provisions for transitioning existing inspector general employees to the new office, ensuring their employment status remains intact. It mandates that by December 31, 2026, the Office must enter into an interagency agreement with the Department of Children, Youth, and Families for multiagency investigations, while appropriating funds for the office's establishment and operations in fiscal years 2026 and 2027. The bill amends existing statutes to streamline fraud investigation processes and protect whistleblowers, ultimately aiming to strengthen oversight of public funds and improve program efficiency.

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