The bill amends various sections of the Government Code related to the Health and Human Services Commission's office of inspector general, effective April 1, 2025. Key changes include the introduction of a new provision allowing the office to disclose information obtained during administrative oversight activities to governmental entities and authorized individuals. Additionally, the bill modifies the procurement process for hiring qualified experts, stating that such experts will be considered expert witnesses and can be retained without competitive bidding if no responsive bids are received. It also clarifies that the office cannot conduct fingerprint-based criminal history checks on licensed health care professionals confirmed to be in good standing, except as required by federal law.

Furthermore, the bill 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. It repeals certain existing provisions of the Government Code and allows for the delay of implementation if federal waivers are needed. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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