MS HB1438

Governor must select a private auditor by June 1, 2026, to audit the Mississippi Department of Human Services and Division of Medicaid for compliance with welfare eligibility and fraud prevention laws

Audit will examine eligibility verification systems, identity and asset verification procedures, fraud referral frequency, out-of-state benefit usage, and compliance with the Medicaid and Human Services Transparency and Fraud Protection Act

Private auditor has authority to request documents, conduct interviews, and pose written questions that agencies must answer within 60 days

Preliminary report on noncompliance findings due within 180 days of auditor appointment, with agencies given opportunity to respond with objections and explanations

Final audit report due to Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and Speaker of the House by January 1, 2027, and annually thereafter, with reports considered public records