The Department of Inspections and Appeals (DIA) is a multifaceted regulatory agency charged with protecting the health, safety, and well-being of Iowans. The department was created in 1986 [Iowa Code Chapter 10A] to coordinate and conduct various audits, appeals, hearings, inspections, and investigations related to the operations of the Executive Branch of Iowa State Government. Staff in the department is responsible for inspecting and licensing or certifying health care providers and suppliers, restaurants and grocery stores, social and charitable gambling operations, hotels and motels, and barber and beauty shops. In addition, DIA staff investigates alleged fraud in the State's public assistance programs and conducts contested case hearings to settle disputes between Iowans and various state government agencies. DIA is organized into four major operational divisions: Administration, Administrative Hearings, Health Facilities, and Investigations. Each division has its own code-mandated duties and responsibilities. Also attached to the department are four semi-autonomous units: the Child Advocacy Board, the Employment Appeal Board, the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission, and the Office of the State Public Defender. DIA provides budgeting, program coordination, and related management functions for these attached units.