60-Second Summary
We are proposing a Charter amendment to create a truly independent Office of Inspector General. This office would be protected from political interference, with the authority to investigate fraud, waste, and abuse. We believe this is the only way to ensure Prince George's County government is truly accountable to the people.
Key Protections
Structural safeguards designed to ensure the Office of Inspector General operates with absolute independence from political interference.
Independent Appointment
Separation of professional qualification from final appointment to prevent political capture.
Protected Tenure
A specified term with removal only for serious cause through an independent process.
Protected Funding
A minimum funding floor of 0.14% of General Fund appropriations to ensure operational independence.
Investigative Authority
Full subpoena power and records access to investigate fraud, waste, and abuse.
Independent Reporting
Public findings and recommendations issued without requiring political clearance.
Whistleblower Protection
Legal safeguards for employees and contractors who report wrongdoing.
Corrective Action Tracking
Monitoring and enforcement of corrective actions to ensure program integrity.
Legal Authority
Full legal enforcement powers to track and refer misconduct to appropriate authorities.
THE PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENT
ARTICLE I: INDEPENDENT STRUCTURE
Section 1. The Office of Inspector General shall be an independent agency of the Prince George's County government, operating under the authority of the County Charter and the Maryland Constitution.
ARTICLE II: PROTECTIVE MEASURES
Section 2. The Inspector General shall be protected from removal except for cause, as determined by an independent selection body. This protection ensures the integrity of the Office and the public trust.
ARTICLE III: FUNDING AND OPERATIONS
Section 3. The Office shall be funded at a minimum of 0.14% of the General Fund appropriations, subject to final legal review. This funding floor is designed to ensure sufficient staffing and operational independence.
ARTICLE IV: INVESTIGATIVE AUTHORITY
Section 4. The Inspector General shall have the authority to conduct investigations, audits, and examinations of County programs and services, including the power to issue subpoenas and access records.
ARTICLE V: REPORTING AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Section 5. Findings and recommendations shall be issued independently of political approval. The Office shall track corrective action and make appropriate referrals to relevant County departments.