The Office of the Ombudsman

The Ombudsman is where small and large businesses, trade associations, and individual community members turn to for assistance with all aspects of the regulatory process. Contact the Ombudsman's Office, at ombudsman@arb.ca.gov or by calling (916) 323-6791.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Ombudsman Office is to provide the public with access and assistance to the regulatory process and encourage open communication to resolve complaints and conflicts.

Our mission is to:

Promote an understanding of California's air quality management system.
Provide guidance on air quality rules and regulations.
Assist small businesses in complying with air quality regulations.
Help with finding solutions to air quality compliance problems.
And to act as a clearinghouse for environmental information.

The Ombudsman gaining valuable
information about California's rice
industry issues.

What is an Ombudsman?

An Ombudsman serves as a friendly advisor to individuals with unresolved complaints and acts to ensure a fair resolution of the situation. ARB's Ombudsman operates independently of division staff, reporting directly to the Chairman of the Board. Essentially, the Ombudsman and her staff act as an unbiased party during disputes. The Ombudsman can investigate a complaint and make a recommendation, but has no direct, legal authority to make or reverse a decision.

What can the Ombudsman do for me?

Frequently, small businesses, community activists, and private citizens do not have the necessary resources to play a major role in the development of regulations that affect them. If you have an interest in a specific air quality issue, the Ombudsman and her staff can help you gain access to the regulatory process. We want everyone who chooses to do so, to have an opportunity to participate in the development of California's air quality programs. We will work with you to determine ways in which you can get involved.

Learning about Enhanced Vapor
Recovery Systems

In addition, the Ombudsman and her staff will investigate your complaint or concern with the fairness of rules, regulatory development, and program implementation at the federal, state and local levels. We will work with you and air quality managers to develop a fair solution in a nonadversial manner. The Ombudsman does not advocate for either party. The Ombudsman's job is to consider all information in an unbiased way and to aid in the resolution.

Important Links

Diesel Activities

Goods Movement

Portable Equipment Registration Program

Climate Change

Clean Air -- California's Successes and Future Challenges

Business Assistance