This legislative bill proposes the establishment of a Common Interest Community Ombudsperson within Minnesota's Department of Commerce. This ombudsperson will serve as a mediator to help resolve disputes between unit owners and the associations of common interest communities, which include properties such as condos and homeowner associations. Here’s a simplified outline of what the bill includes:

1. Definitions: Clarifies terms such as "association", "common interest community", "unit", and "unit owner".

2. Establishment of Ombudsperson Position:

   • Appointed by the governor and must be neutral and skilled in dispute resolution.
   • Cannot be a unit owner or be affiliated with an association or management company dealing with such communities.

3. Duties of the Ombudsperson:

   • Advocate on behalf of unit owners and record complaints.
   • Provide dispute resolution services when requested by unit owners, except in certain circumstances like ongoing legal actions.
   • Help unit owners understand their rights and responsibilities, and provide informative materials via a maintained website.

4. Limitations on Ombudsperson's Powers:

   • Can inspect premises but cannot issue formal legal opinions or make binding rulings in disputes.

5. Privacy and Data Handling:

   • All personal data handled by the ombudsperson are to be kept private or nonpublic, with strict controls on their release.

6. Website and Informational Resources:

   • The ombudsperson must maintain a website to assist and educate unit owners and associations, featuring relevant laws, dispute resolution services, and other helpful resources.

This bill aims to facilitate better management and resolution of conflicts within common interest communities, ensuring protections and support for unit owners through the creation of an Ombudsperson role. The position is also intended to provide educational resources to help all parties understand their rights and obligations better.