We investigate complaints against agencies or officials of state and local governments in Iowa. We work with agencies to attempt to rectify problems when our investigation finds that a mistake, arbitrary, or illegal action has taken place.
We have unique statutory authority to investigate and determine if an action was fair or reasonable, even if in accordance with law. We often can speed up official responses from agencies. We perform this service, without a fee, in an independent and, when appropriate, confidential manner.
We have access to state and local government’s facilities and confidential records to ensure a complete review of facts regarding a complaint.
Local Government
Examples: Cities, Counties, Township Trustees, Jails, Local Districts (Water and Drainage)
State Government
Examples: Human Services, Medicaid, Transportation, Natural Resources, Workforce Development, Public Defender, Professional Licensing Boards
Law Enforcement
Examples: State Patrol, County Sheriffs, City Police
Correctional Facilities and Programs
Examples: State Correctional Facilities, Residential facilities, Probation, and Parole
Schools
Examples: State Universities, School Districts
Intergovernmental Entities
Examples: Entities that have entered into 28E agreements with a state or local governmental agency.
Iowa General Assembly and Legislators
Click here to learn about filing a complaint
The Governor and the Governor’s Staff
Courts, Judges or Their Staff
Click Here to learn about filing a complaint
Federal Agencies
Examples: Federal Senators and Representatives
Private Entities
Employment
We can take complaints from whistleblowers concerning retaliation under certain situations.
Private Professionals
Examples: Attorneys, Health Professionals, Pharmacists, Real Estate Agents, etc.
Insurance Companies
Nursing Homes and Long-Term Care Facilities
Not Sure? Contact Us!
Please contact us directly if you don’t think it would be appropriate for us to require you to go through an available complaint or review process before we consider your complaint. We can consider your specific circumstances before we decide – including the urgency of your complaint or any disabilities or barriers you may be experiencing.