These investigations are initiated pursuant to allegations of fraud, waste or abuse in the conduct of state or federally mandated programs and are designed to ensure the integrity and efficiency of agency management and operations. A major activity of investigations includes the processing of Federal Incident Reports. Incident Report activities relate to information and complaints about fraud, abuse or suspected Criminal activity involving the use or misuse of state or federal funds. Department managers are responsible for reporting actual or suspected violations to the Office of Inspector General and to appropriate management. The Incident Report process enables the Office of Inspector General to maintain oversight responsibilities for matters concerning federally funded programs, which have the potential for misapplication of funds, gross mismanagement and associate misconduct.
Management reviews are independent reviews of program effectiveness and management processes.
The reviews assess management s effectiveness and responsiveness, assist management in identifying weaknesses and strengths, and provide assistance in developing and implementing corrective actions. The performance of internal audits assists Department associates in the effective discharge of their duties and responsibilities, and evaluates internal controls to determine if they are adequate to ensure the integrity and fiscal accountability of the Department. These services may include providing information or research, or addressing complaints or management concerns. Office of Inspector General staff may also review proposals regarding process or organizational changes for the inclusion of appropriate safeguards. A new technical assistance function is the statutory duty of reviewing proposed agency rules to assess their impact on program operations and oversight functions.