MS HB1039

Creates the Office of Inspector General in Mississippi to investigate, detect, and eradicate fraud, waste, and abuse in executive branch state agencies, with jurisdiction over all departments, boards, commissions, and employees in the executive branch

Requires the Governor to appoint a State Inspector General with Senate confirmation, who must be designated a Certified Inspector General by the Association of Inspectors General within one year of appointment and serves at the Governor's pleasure

Grants the Inspector General authority to administer oaths, issue subpoenas, enter agency premises without prior announcement, question employees, inspect records, and employ peace officers to conduct criminal investigations

Prohibits agencies from taking adverse action against employees who disclose fraud, waste, or abuse to the Inspector General, and adds the Office to the list of state investigative bodies for whistleblower protection purposes

Rescinds Executive Order No. 728 from 1993 that previously created a State Inspector General position within the Governor's Office; effective date is July 1, 2026