Reporting authority expanded for inspector general

A bill that gives the inspector general of the Nebraska Correctional System expanded reporting capabilities was passed by the Legislature April 24.

Currently, the inspector general’s office investigates allegations of possible misconduct, malfeasance, statute violations, injury and deaths that occur in the state’s facilities. The findings are then published in the office’s annual report.

LB539, introduced by Omaha Sen. Bob Krist, expands the reporting requirement to include all cases that result in death, serious injury, hospitalization or urgent medical treatment required by an employee acting in his or her official capacity.

The inspector general may release investigative findings if it is determined to be in the public’s best interest. The bill also protects employees who provide information for such a report from negative employment consequences.

The bill passed on a 42-2 vote.