HF 152

as introduced - 88th Legislature (2013 - 2014) Posted on 03/20/2013 05:11pm

A bill for an act
relating to transportation; establishing a transportation ombudsperson; amending
Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 174.02, by adding a subdivision.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA:

Section 1.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 174.02, is amended by adding a
subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 2a. new text end

new text begin Transportation ombudsperson. new text end

new text begin (a) The commissioner shall appoint a
person to the position of transportation ombudsperson. The transportation ombudsperson
reports directly to the commissioner. The ombudsperson must be selected without regard to
political affiliation and must be qualified to perform the duties specified in this subdivision.
new text end

new text begin (b) Powers and duties of the transportation ombudsperson include, but are not
limited to:
new text end

new text begin (1) providing a neutral, independent resource for dispute and issue resolution between
the department and the general public where another mechanism or forum is not available;
new text end

new text begin (2) gathering information about decisions, acts, and other matters of the department;
new text end

new text begin (3) providing information to the general public;
new text end

new text begin (4) facilitating discussions or arranging mediation when appropriate; and
new text end

new text begin (5) maintaining and monitoring performance measures for the ombudsperson
program.
new text end

new text begin (c) The transportation ombudsperson may not hold another formal position within
the department. The transportation ombudsperson may not impose a complaint fee.
new text end