This bill focuses on creating and defining the roles, powers, and responsibilities of the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) in Minnesota. The main goals of the OIG are to investigate, prevent, and address fraud, waste, and abuse within state government programs. Key points of the bill include:

1. Establishment of the Office: The OIG will be set up as an agency under the legislative branch, led by an appointed Inspector General who will serve a six-year term. The Inspector General's work will be overseen by the Legislative Audit Commission.

2. Duties and Powers: The Inspector General will have substantial powers including subpoena power, ability to audit and investigate agencies, stop payments where fraud is suspected, and impose or recommend sanctions. A fraud reporting hotline will be established for public and state agency staff to report suspected fraud anonymously.

3. Coordination with Other Offices: The bill also details how the Inspector General must coordinate with other agencies, ensuring that efforts are not duplicated and are complementary to the work of the legislative auditor.

4. Protection Against Retaliation: It protects employees who report suspected fraud, ensuring that they cannot be retaliated against.

5. Data Practices: The Inspector General will operate under strict data protection norms to handle sensitive information responsibly.

6. Appropriations and Funding: Specifies funding for the operation of this office from the state budget.

7. Repeal and Replacement: Various existing offices of Inspector General within state departments will be abolished, centralizing responsibilities to the newly established state-level OIG.

The bill aims to enhance transparency, accountability, and the efficient use of public funds by strengthening the state's ability to fight against misuse within government-managed programs.