MS HB49

Creates the Office of Inspector General attached to the Governor's Office to investigate and eradicate fraud, waste, misconduct, inefficiencies, mismanagement, abuse, and corruption in executive branch agencies

Requires the Governor to appoint a State Inspector General (with Senate consent) who must be a Certified Inspector General within one year of appointment, with salary set by the Governor

Grants the Inspector General broad investigative powers including subpoena authority, ability to administer oaths, enter agency premises without prior notice, and access all agency records and personnel

Authorizes the Inspector General to employ peace officers with law enforcement powers to conduct criminal investigations, including authority to obtain and execute search warrants

Prohibits agencies from retaliating against employees who report prohibited activities to the Inspector General and adds the Office to the list of state investigative bodies for whistleblower protection purposes

Effective date: July 1, 2025