MN House of Reps Passes OIG Bill

ST. PAUL – State Representative Max Rymer (R-North Branch) called Thursday’s passage of anti-fraud legislation a major victory for taxpayers and government accountability after the House approved the bill on a 127-5 vote.

The bill (S.F. 856) creates an independent Office of the Inspector General with future law enforcement authority to investigate fraud involving state agencies, grant recipients, and contractors. Rymer said the legislation is a critical step toward addressing the billions of taxpayer dollars lost to fraud in Minnesota.

“House Republicans fought to ensure this Office of Inspector General would have real independence and real authority, not simply become another symbolic office,” said Rymer. “Minnesotans are tired of seeing fraud and abuse go unchecked, and this bill delivers meaningful reforms to help protect taxpayer dollars and restore accountability.”

The legislation includes subpoena power and the ability to freeze funds under court order. Rymer noted that Democrats attempted to weaken portions of the bill during negotiations, but Republicans remained focused on preserving strong enforcement measures.

If enacted, Minnesota would join approximately 15 to 20 other states with a statewide Office of Inspector General overseeing executive agencies. The bill now moves to the Senate.