The bill, S.B. No. 1461, aims to amend the Government Code regarding the administration and duties of the Health and Human Services Commission's Office of Inspector General. Key changes include the procurement process for contracts with qualified experts to review investigative findings, allowing the commission to bypass certain competitive bidding requirements when obtaining these services. Specifically, it states that Subtitle D, Title 10 does not apply to the commission's procurement of such contracts, aligning it with existing provisions for expert witnesses. Additionally, the bill introduces a new section permitting the disclosure of information obtained during administrative oversight activities to various governmental entities and authorized individuals.

Further amendments include restrictions on conducting fingerprint-based criminal history checks for healthcare professionals already confirmed to be licensed and in good standing, except as required by federal law. The bill also mandates the commission to promote successful fraud prosecutions and maintain an appropriate communications system for reporting suspected fraud, replacing the previous requirement for a toll-free hotline. Lastly, it repeals certain provisions of the Government Code and establishes that the act will take effect on September 1, 2025, contingent upon any necessary federal waivers or authorizations.

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