Minnesota Office of the Ombuds for Corrections
OBFC
Summary
The Ombuds for Corrections is appointed by the Governor (removable only for cause) and operates independently of the Department of Corrections, reporting directly to the Governor. Jurisdiction covers all 11 state prison facilities and approximately 150 DOC-licensed local jails (§241.91). The ombuds has statutory subpoena power, may compel testimony, and has access to private and confidential corrections data and medical records (§§241.93–241.94). Recommendations to the DOC are advisory only; the ombuds must consult the criticized agency before publishing adverse findings (prepublication advisory step). Annual reports go to the Governor and relevant legislative committees (§241.95).
Independence Scorecard
| Appointment | Executive appointment |
|---|---|
| Term length | Not specified |
| Removal standard | For cause only |
| Budget independence | Legislative line item |
| Subpoena power | Yes |
| Compel testimony | Yes |
| Records access | Full access |
| Public reports required | Yes |
| Pre-publication review | Advisory only (not binding) |
Statute
- Name
- Minnesota Statutes §§241.90–241.95 – Ombudsperson for Corrections
- Citation
- Minn. Stat. §§ 241.90–241.95
- Full text
- Full text of law →
Jurisdiction scope
Minnesota Department of Corrections facilities and all DOC-licensed local jails and correctional facilities