MN HF4130

Creates an independent Office of the Inspector General in the executive branch effective January 1, 2027, to investigate fraud and misuse of public funds across all state agency programs, with authority to issue subpoenas, access data, seek court orders to freeze funds, and refer matters for criminal prosecution.

Inspector general appointed by the governor with three-fifths senate confirmation after recommendations from an 8-member bipartisan Legislative Inspector General Advisory Commission; serves 5-year terms and can only be removed for cause with approval of three-fifths of both legislative chambers.

Requires candidates to have a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, law, or related field, 10+ years professional experience in auditing or investigations, and professional certification; bars current/former commissioners, agency heads, governors, and legislators from serving within 5 years of their service.

Establishes an Inspector General Coordinating Committee to share investigative data across agencies and requires interagency agreements by December 31, 2027, with the Departments of Human Services, Children/Youth/Families, Health, and Education.

Appropriates $3,034,000 in FY2027 to the Office of Inspector General (base of $6,432,000 in FY2028), plus $859,000 for establishment costs through Department of Administration, and additional funds to coordinating agencies totaling approximately $1.2 million.