The proposed bill establishes an independent Office of Inspector General in Rhode Island, aimed at preventing and detecting fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement in public fund expenditures. This new office will be governed by Chapter 9.4 of Title 42 of the General Laws, with the Inspector General appointed for a five-year term by a majority vote of the governor, attorney general, and general treasurer. Key provisions include the Inspector General's authority to conduct audits, investigations, and oversight reviews of public bodies, as well as the ability to issue subpoenas for records and witness testimony. The bill emphasizes transparency and accountability, requiring annual reports to be submitted to the finance committees of the Senate and House, and mandates the establishment of an anonymous hotline for reporting misconduct.

Additionally, the bill merges the responsibilities of the Auditor General into the Office of Inspector General, transferring authority from the "joint committee on legislative services" to the Inspector General. It includes provisions for the appointment and oversight of the Auditor General, who must have relevant experience and will report directly to the Inspector General. The bill also introduces confidentiality measures for investigations and subpoenas, with penalties for violations, and outlines the rights of individuals subpoenaed. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance the oversight and security of government operations while ensuring that public funds are managed properly and that the rights of individuals involved in investigations are protected.