The Small Business Ombudsman acts as the small business community's representative in matters that affect it under the Clean Air Act Amendments (CAAA) and other environmental issues. Other responsibilities include conducting studies to evaluate the effects of the CAAA on state and local economies, and on small businesses in general. The Ombudsman also provides comments and recommendations to the United States Environmental Protection Agency and DES regarding the development and implementation of regulations that impact small businesses.

The Small Business Advocate (Ombudsman) does the following:

• Provides proactive services to business owners to avoid
• Penalties and fines for non-compliance
• Delays in permit issuance
• Purchasing non-compliant equipment
• Unnecessary expense due to regulatory uncertainty.
• Represents the interests of small businesses in legislative and regulatory development.
• Facilitates the resolution of complaints and disagreements between business owners and DES in a mutually beneficial manner.
• Develops and facilitates education and outreach programs on specific regulatory compliance issues.