The proposed bill establishes the Office of the State Inspector General in Minnesota, which will function independently within the executive branch to promote accountability, transparency, and integrity in state agencies and programs. The state inspector general will be tasked with conducting inspections, evaluations, and investigations to detect fraud and misuse of public funds, with the authority to refer cases for civil, criminal, or administrative action. The bill outlines the qualifications for the inspector general, including a bachelor's degree in a relevant field and a minimum of ten years of professional experience, and mandates a competitive selection process involving the Legislative Inspector General Advisory Commission. The bill also amends several sections of Minnesota Statutes to include the state inspector general in the definition of "public official" and in the list of agency head salaries, with an effective date set for July 1, 2027.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for interagency coordination, allowing the state inspector general to work with various state agencies to ensure resource conservation during investigations. It grants the inspector general the authority to issue subpoenas, access data for investigations, and maintain anonymous fraud reporting tools. The bill also establishes the Legislative Inspector General Advisory Commission, which will oversee the inspector general's work and submit recommendations by January 1, 2027. Furthermore, it includes amendments regarding the withholding of payments in programs administered by the commissioner in cases of credible fraud allegations, requiring timely notifications to affected parties and ensuring that withholding ceases if insufficient evidence is found. Overall, the bill aims to enhance oversight and accountability in state-administered programs while ensuring due process for individuals involved.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 3.971, 15A.0815, 609.456, 127A.21, 142A.03, 142A.12, 144.05, 245.095, 256.01