- Audit finds Minnesota nutrition program for 40,000 seniors lack sufficient oversight (Star Tribune, 11/13/2023)
- The Minnesota Board on Aging faced criticism in a legislative auditor’s report for inadequate oversight of the Senior Nutrition Program, which provides meals to around 40,000 residents. Key issues highlighted included a lack of monitoring of program activities and contracts, failure to conduct required site visits, and insufficient documentation on how meal reimbursements are calculated. In response, the state board acknowledged the shortcomings, citing challenges in administering increased funding during the pandemic, and committed to addressing the recommendations for improved oversight.
- State agencies allowed pandemic cash to go to ineligible Minnesotans, Legislative Auditor finds (MPR News, 6/12/2024)
- Minnesota state agencies are facing scrutiny for allowing pandemic relief funds to be distributed to ineligible residents, with an investigation revealing that oversight and verification processes were inadequate, resulting in millions of dollars being improperly allocated. The report by the legislative auditor prompted calls for accountability and measures to prevent similar mismanagement in future aid programs.
- Campus Protest Hearings Continue at the State Level (Inside Higher Ed, 7/16/2024)
- State-level hearings on campus protests are ongoing, with a focus on antisemitism and the handling of pro-Palestinian demonstrations. Critics argue that federal hearings on campus protests were politically motivated, but state lawmakers and higher education experts view these hearings as a necessary part of legislative oversight, emphasizing the importance of communication between legislators and university administrators for a more civil and productive conversation. The hearings address concerns about controversial statements, academic freedom, and the handling of legal charges against protesters.
- Audit finds Minnesota Academies for the Deaf and the Blind lacked financial oversight (The Minnesota Star Tribune, 11/12/2024)
- A recent report from the Office of the Legislative Auditor identified significant financial oversight deficiencies at the Minnesota State Academies for the Deaf and the Blind. The audit highlighted issues such as the superintendent approving his own travel expenses and the accumulation of over $3.7 million in unspent funds amid declining enrollment. In response, Superintendent Terry Wilding acknowledged the findings and committed to implementing the recommended improvements.
- Minnesota lawmakers ask tough questions about state oversight of Child Care Assistance Program (KSTP, 1/30/2025)
- Minnesota lawmakers questioned state officials about oversight of the Child Care Assistance Program during a legislative hearing, focusing on fraud prevention and enforcement efforts. According to state officials, improvements have been made since a 2019 report highlighted vulnerabilities, but legislators expressed concerns about ongoing risks and the effectiveness of current safeguards. The discussion included inquiries about funding, investigative resources, and the role of the Office of the Legislative Auditor in monitoring the program.
