Funding for state health care is sure to be a hot topic when the Louisiana legislature convenes next month.  One thing state leaders don't want to see is employees of the Department of Health and Hospitals stealing money.

A DHH spokeswoman says unusual accounting practices by an employee aroused their suspicions.

"Through an internal investigation, our staff has gathered evidence that leads them to believe that a DHH employee has misappropriated public funds and used them for personal activities," said Kristin Sunde.

DHH has not identified the employee, but did say the amount stolen is around $800,000.

"This is pending an active and ongoing investigation," Sunde explained, "but we have turned our internal investigation information over to the proper authorities."

Sunde said the employee is suspended, will likely be fired, and could be arrested.