SAINT PAUL – As part of its mission to serve as a trusted public resource for consumers, the Minnesota Department of Commerce has added translated versions of key consumer information on its website (mn.gov/commerce). The translated languages include Hmong, Somali and Spanish.

The Commerce website offers a “one-stop” gateway page to the translated content.

“Protecting consumers is our number one priority at the Commerce Department,” said Commissioner Mike Rothman. “All Minnesotans should have access to objective, consumer-friendly information so they are empowered to make good financial decisions for themselves and their families. This information is especially important for our immigrant communities because they are often targets of fraud and predatory financial practices.”

The translated webpages include information on:

• Home and auto insurance policies
• Making insurance claims
• Finding and claiming missing money
• Avoiding financial scams and pitfalls
• Help paying for home heating costs

The Commerce Department’s mission is to protect the public interest; advocate for Minnesota consumers; ensure a strong, competitive and fair marketplace; strengthen the state’s economic future; and serve as a trusted public resource for consumers and businesses.

The Commerce Department regulates Minnesota’s insurance industry, financial institutions, securities and real estate sector. It also has a major role in overseeing the electric, natural gas and telephone sectors, energy conservation and efficiency, and administering low-income energy assistance programs. In addition, the Department regulates the accuracy of scales and pumps used for fuel and goods transactions in Minnesota’s economy.

Commerce is here to help

If you have a consumer protection question or believe you have been a victim of fraud, contact the Commerce Department’s Consumer Services Center by email at consumer.protection@state.mn.us or by phone at 651-539-1600 or 800-657-3602 (Greater Minnesota).