HI SB286

Establishes the Office of the State Inspector General within the Department of Accounting and General Services, headed by a full-time State Inspector General appointed by the governor with senate confirmation for a five-year term.

Grants the Inspector General authority to investigate complaints of fraud, waste, abuse, or corruption by state agencies, quasi-public agencies, and their officers or employees, and to conduct performance reviews of state agencies.

Empowers the Inspector General to subpoena witnesses and documents, enter agency premises without notice, question officers and employees, and coordinate with law enforcement on investigations.

Requires state agencies and quasi-public agencies to cooperate with investigations, report allegations of fraud and corruption, and make records available to the Inspector General upon request.

Amends whistleblower protections to shield employees from retaliation for reporting allegations to the State Inspector General, and appropriates funds for the office's establishment and staffing for fiscal years 2015-2016 and 2016-2017.