The Hessian Data Protection Act of 1970 was a response to the increasing automation of data processing. In order to monitor compliance with data protection regulations, the institution of the Hessian Data Protection Commissioner (HDSB) was created, based in Wiesbaden. Previous incumbents were Willi Birkelbach (1971-75), Prof. Dr. Spiros Simitis (1975-91), Prof. Dr. Winfried Hassemer (1991-96), Prof. Dr. Rainer Hamm (1996-99), Prof. Dr. Friedrich von Zezschwitz (1999-2003), Prof. Dr. Michael Ronellenfitsch (since 2003).

The Hessian Data Protection Commissioner is elected by the Hessian State Parliament for the duration of the respective parliamentary term. As the highest state authority, he is independent in the exercise of his office and subject only to the law. The Data Protection Commissioner can only be removed from office by a ruling of the Hessian State Court.

Initially, the Hessian Data Protection Commissioner had the sole task of monitoring compliance with data protection in the public bodies of the state of Hesse. In spring 2011, however, the Hessian legislator extended the scope of his responsibilities by also assigning him the task of monitoring non-public bodies based in Hesse. In this area, it is also responsible for the prosecution and punishment of administrative offenses. In addition, it advises the state government and all other data processing bodies.