Human Services – Local Departments of Social Services – Audits

HB 251 changes how often the Office of the Inspector General audits local social services departments in Maryland, shifting from "at least once every 3 years" to requiring audits "at an interval ranging from 3 to 4 years" unless more frequent audits are needed. The bill mandates that audit frequency be determined based on risk factors, including the department's program risks, past audit findings, and other relevant risk considerations. It also requires the Inspector General to prepare and distribute written audit reports to the local board and governing authority. This bill directly affects all local departments of social services and the Office of the Inspector General.