MS SB2733

Establishes the Office of Public Assistance Inspector General within the executive branch, appointed by the Governor with Senate approval for six-year terms starting July 1, 2012.

Requires appointee to be a licensed attorney, certified public accountant, or have at least five years of law enforcement experience; bars those convicted of felonies or crimes involving fraud or dishonesty.

Grants the Inspector General authority to investigate, prosecute, and recover funds related to fraud in Medicaid, TANF, SNAP, LIHEAP, unemployment compensation, and public housing assistance programs.

Empowers investigators as law enforcement officers with subpoena authority, arrest powers, and ability to execute search warrants; allows appointment of deputies and professional staff.

Creates two dedicated funds: the Public Assistance Inspector General Fund for non-Medicaid fraud investigations and the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit Fund for Medicaid-specific operations, both funded through appropriations and external sources.