HF2522

Purpose of the Bill

This bill aims to designate the commissioner of commerce in Minnesota to oversee and manage two specific programs: the Commerce Fraud Bureau and the Automobile Theft Prevention Program. It provides the commissioner with the authority to manage the operations and responsibilities related to these areas.

Main Provisions

1. Commerce Fraud Bureau Authority:

   • The bill allows the commissioner of commerce to appoint peace officers and establish a law enforcement agency known as the Commerce Fraud Bureau.
   • This bureau is tasked with investigating insurance-related crimes and financial crimes and has the authority to make arrests related to these offenses.
   • At least 70% of the bureau's work must focus on insurance fraud.

2. Response to Law Enforcement Requests:

   • The Commerce Fraud Bureau may assist other law enforcement agencies upon request.

3. Oversight of Programs:

   • The commissioner of commerce is given total responsibility for the functions, personnel, powers, responsibilities, and oversight of both the Commerce Fraud Bureau and the Automobile Theft Prevention Program.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• The bill amends existing statutes to expand the authority and role of the commissioner of commerce by explicitly adding oversight duties for the Commerce Fraud Bureau and Automobile Theft Prevention Program. This consolidates the operational and management responsibilities for fraud and theft prevention within the Department of Commerce.

Relevant Terms

• Commerce Fraud Bureau
• Insurance fraud
• Financial crimes
• Automobile theft prevention
• Commissioner of commerce
• Law enforcement agency
• Peace officers