Expanding the scope of the inspector general to audit and investigate all state cash, food or health assistance programs and granting the inspector general the power to subpoena, administer oaths and execute search warrants thereto.
Impact
The implications of HB 2217 are significant for state laws governing the operation of welfare programs. By amending existing statutes, the bill increases the inspector general's jurisdiction, making it imperative for state agencies and contractors to adhere to heightened scrutiny over their compliance with federal and state regulations. Moreover, this broader oversight authority is aimed at deterring fraud, waste, and abuse within state assistance programs, which has been a central concern for many stakeholders involved in healthcare and social welfare.
Summary
House Bill 2217 seeks to expand the powers of the inspector general within the state of Kansas by enabling a comprehensive oversight mechanism for all state cash, food, and health assistance programs. The bill grants the inspector general the authority to audit and investigate these programs more effectively, thereby enhancing accountability and integrity in their operations. This objective aligns with ongoing efforts to improve the state's governance and safeguard public funds through systematic review and analysis.
Contention
While the bill is generally supported for its aim to protect state funds and improve the efficiency of public service delivery, some concerns have been raised regarding the balance of power and the potential for overreach by the inspector general's office. Critics suggest that with expanded authority, there could be a risk of increased bureaucratic controls over local programs that may stifle service delivery. Thus, the implementation of this bill will likely require close monitoring to ensure that its benefits are realized without compromising the operational autonomy of local agencies.
Expanding the scope of the inspector general to audit and investigate all state cash, food or health assistance programs and granting the inspector general the power to subpoena, administer oaths and execute search warrants thereto.
Granting the medicaid inspector general access to the prescription monitoring program database without a warrant and replacing the member of the program advisory committee representing the Kansas bureau of investigation with a member appointed by the attorney general's office.
Requiring job search instead of a 20-hour work week for child care subsidy eligibility, allowing food assistance funds for advertising food assistance programs and modifying penalties for non-cooperation for all assistance programs.
Granting law enforcement officials access to the prescription monitoring program database without a warrant and replacing the member of the program advisory committee representing the Kansas bureau of investigation with the attorney general or the attorney general's designee.
Directing the secretary for children and families to request a waiver from supplemental nutrition assistance program rules and prohibit the purchase of candy and soft drinks with food assistance.
Creating the regulatory relief division within the office of the attorney general and establishing the general regulatory sandbox program to waive or suspend state statutes and rules and regulations for program participants.
Expanding the scope of the inspector general to audit and investigate all state cash, food or health assistance programs and granting the inspector general the power to subpoena, administer oaths and execute search warrants thereto.
Relating to the creation of offices of inspectors general at the Health and Human Services Commission, Texas Youth Commission, Texas Department of Criminal Justice, Texas Department of Transportation, and Texas Education Agency; providing penalties.
Relating to the creation of the office of inspector general, including the required appointment of deputy inspectors general at the Health and Human Services Commission, Texas Youth Commission, Texas Department of Criminal Justice, Texas Education Agency, and Texas Department of Transportation; providing penalties.
Relating to the creation of the office of inspector within the State Auditor's Office and the appointment of deputy inspectors general at the Health and Human Services Commission, Texas Youth Commission, Texas Department of Criminal Justice, Texas Education Agency, and Texas Department of Transportation; providing penalties.