MN HF2701

Creates the Office of the Ombudsperson for American Indian Families operating independently but in collaboration with the Indian Affairs Council, with the ombudsperson selected by the American Indian Community-Specific Board.

Ombudsperson monitors agency compliance with child protection and placement laws, works with courts to ensure cultural competency training and use of qualified American Indian experts and advocates, and has authority to investigate complaints, access agency information, and subpoena personnel.

Establishes a five-member American Indian Community-Specific Board appointed by the Indian Affairs Council chair to select the ombudsperson and advise on policies, programs, and protocols; board members receive expense reimbursement and per diem but no salary.

Modifies existing ombudsperson statute by changing "Four" to "Three" community-specific boards and removing the Indian Affairs Council from that list, since the American Indian ombudsperson is now established under separate statute (section 3.9215).

Transfers any remaining money designated for the Ombudsperson for American Indian Families from the Office of the Ombudsperson for Families to the new Office of the Ombudsperson for American Indian Families before the end of fiscal year 2016 in a cost-neutral manner.