No civil action, except removal from office as provided in chapter 66, or proceeding shall be commenced against the ombudsman or any member of the staff for any act or omission performed pursuant to the provisions of this chapter unless the act or omission is actuated by malice or is grossly negligent, nor shall the ombudsman or any member of the staff be compelled to testify in any court with respect to any matter involving the exercise of the ombudsman’s official duties except as may be necessary to enforce the provisions of this chapter.