Minn. Gov. Tim Walz appointed Grace Arnold as commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Commerce. Arnold replaces Steve Kelley as commissioner.
Arnold’s background includes service as deputy commissioner of insurance at the Department of Commerce as well as temporary commissioner. This appointment follows an application review and interview process beginning with a call for applications in January.
“Commissioner Grace Arnold is deeply committed to the prosperity and wellbeing of all Minnesotans, and she is an effective, consumer-focused, and steady leader—particularly during one of the most challenging periods in Minnesota history,” Walz said. “I am proud to appoint her to this critical role of protecting consumers and ensuring a strong, equitable, and resilient Minnesota. As we work to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic and build a stronger future, Commissioner Arnold is the right leader for Minnesota.”
“Along with keeping the health insurance market fair and keeping our seniors protected from fraud, the Department of Commerce plays a critical role in eliminating structural equity barriers in the banking and insurance industries, as well as advancing a clean energy future for our state,” Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan said. “I am excited for Commissioner Grace Arnold’s leadership of the Department of Commerce, because I know her expertise and values will lead to a stronger and more equitable Minnesota.”
“It is my great honor to lead the dedicated public servants at the Department of Commerce who work every day to create a better Minnesota for generations to come,” Arnold said. “Together, we can achieve a 100 percent clean energy future, protect our seniors from fraud, safeguard consumers, and create a strong and fair marketplace where all Minnesotans can thrive.”
The Department of Commerce is the state’s consumer protection agency. Commerce oversees more than 20 regulated industries, including insurance, financial institutions, energy, real estate, and telecommunications, investigates consumer complaints on fraud, and ensures the accuracy of commercial and grocery store scales and gasoline pumps across the state.