What is an Ombudsperson?

An ombudsperson is a neutral and independent official who reviews government agency practices to ensure that they are fair and reasonable. To do this, the ombudsman receives complaints from parents, families, or the public, reviews, investigates, and if appropriate, makes recommendations to remedy the complaints. Read OBFF's enabling statute.

What an Ombudsperson can do:

  • answer questions;
  • conduct investigations;
  • review policies and procedures;
  • recommend changes;
  • offer information and referrals;
  • advocate for equity, fairness, and transparency;
  • discuss complaints in confidence;
  • mediate a settlement or recommend a resolution;
  • issue reports.

What an Ombudsperson can't do:

  • litigate;
  • join as a party, or participant;
  • handle family law matters (divorce, custody, child support, visitation);
  • order a court, agency, or other entity to make a change;
  • accept every complaint;
  • satisfy every complainant;
  • make binding, or punitive recommendations.

I need to submit a complaint:

Parents, guardians, family members, and members of the public may submit a complaint to the Office of Ombudsperson for Families. Call the Intake line at 651-539-1257 if you need assistance.

Make a complaint online

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Juneteenth 2026

OBFF is closed on Friday, June 19, for Juneteenth.

Juneteenth celebrates the date in 1865 that enslaved African Americans in Galveston Bay, TX, were informed about the Emancipation Proclamation, which had been signed two years earlier. It is celebrated as America's second Independence Day! Check out these Juneteenth celebrations happening throughout Minnesota, or look up events in your local community.

Know Your Rights

Immigration Resources from Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota

The Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota has compiled the following resources to help assist immigrants, refugees, advocates, and organizers in knowing your rights, preparing for the future, and meeting basic needs.

Information for Immigrants and Refugees

Community support resources for immigrants and refugees in Minnesota.

Refugee and Immigrant Helpline

The Refugee and Immigrant Helpline is a new service that connects callers to information, resources and supports in communities across Minnesota. You can reach the helpline by calling 1-800-814-4806, or by emailing DHS.RPO.Helpline@state.mn.us.

OBFF News & Updates

Latest OBFF News

View Latest OBFF News
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Read the Latest OBFF Newsletter

Catch up on the latest news and updates from the Office of Ombudsperson for Families! Read the latest newsletter online.

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Weekly Briefing from the Governor

Read the latest briefing from Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan.

Updates from the Community