Bismarck, ND (October 29, 2026) - North Dakota Health and Human Services is pleased to say the 2025 biennial audit released by the State Auditor’s Office shows strong overall performance across its programs, safeguards and operations. In a biennial budget of nearly $6 billion, auditors identified only seven findings, which demonstrates effective oversight and responsible program management.
HHS Commissioner Conner Swanson said the audit confirms the department’s commitment to accountability and strong stewardship of public resources. “Our team works every day to ensure North Dakotans can rely on programs that are safe, effective and well-managed,” Swanson said. “We appreciate the work of the State Auditor's Office, which highlights that the vast majority of our operations are sound and provides targeted opportunities to make already strong programs even better.”
The audit found no evidence of systemic failures or widespread improper payments. Instead, the identified issues reflect documentation gaps, varying provider practices and opportunities to strengthen oversight. HHS manages thousands of providers, complex federal and state programs and millions of interactions each year, making the limited number of findings notable.
Many improvements linked to the findings are already complete or underway. HHS will continue system modernization, policy updates and stronger provider oversight to reinforce program integrity. The department remains focused on ensuring that benefits reach people who qualify and that taxpayer dollars are used responsibly.
HHS will work closely with the State Auditor’s Office, legislators, providers and families as it implements additional improvements across its operations.