State legislative auditor: New fraud watchdog office needs time, grace, resources for success

Marquee fraud prevention legislation is on its way to Gov. Tim Walz’s desk to be signed into law.A bill creating an Office of Inspector General received final approval in the Senate on Monday in a unanimous vote. The new office will have the power to review payments for public programs and take action if it spots irregularities. The office is expected to be fully operational by Sept. 1, 2027.Legislative Auditor Judy Randall is familiar with this type of work. Her office conducts routine audits of state agencies. She joined MPR News host Nina Moini to discuss the potential impact of the new office and the challenges it may face as it launches.