National Ombudsman: A Key Advocate for Small Businesses Against Regulatory Overreach
Definition & Meaning
The National Ombudsman is a federal office established to support small businesses facing unfair regulatory enforcement actions by federal agencies. Created in 1996 under the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act (SBREFA), the office helps small business owners address issues such as excessive audits, unjust fines, and retaliatory actions. It acts as a mediator between small businesses and federal agencies, forwarding complaints and advocating for fair treatment in regulatory processes.
Legal Use & context
The National Ombudsman plays a crucial role in the legal landscape concerning small businesses. It is primarily involved in the area of regulatory compliance and enforcement. Small business owners can utilize the services of the National Ombudsman when they believe they are being subjected to unfair regulatory actions. This office provides a pathway for users to voice their concerns and seek resolution without needing extensive legal knowledge or representation.
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A small bakery receives multiple inspections from a federal agency within a short time frame, leading to excessive fines. The owner contacts the National Ombudsman, who helps address the situation with the agency.
Example 2: A tech startup faces retaliation after reporting unfair practices by a federal contractor. The startup reaches out to the National Ombudsman for support in resolving the issue. (hypothetical example)
Relevant laws & statutes
The primary statute governing the National Ombudsman is the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act (SBREFA) of 1996. This act outlines the responsibilities and powers of the National Ombudsman in assisting small businesses with regulatory enforcement issues.