Bill > SB561

This bill revises the composition and selection process for Montana's Public Service Commission (PSC), changing it from five geographically elected commissioners to two elected commissioners and three appointed commissioners. The bill reduces the number of PSC districts from five to two, aligning them with congressional districts, and extends the term length for commissioners from 4 to 6 years. Elected and appointed commissioners will now be subject to stricter qualifications, including a 4-year separation from regulated industry affiliations and prohibitions on financial interests in regulated entities. The bill establishes a new process for appointing commissioners, requiring gubernatorial nomination and confirmation by at least two-thirds of the state senate. Appointed commissioners must be industry experts with substantial experience in fields like finance, law, energy, or utilities. The bill also introduces term limits, allowing commissioners (both elected and appointed) to serve up to 12 years in a 24-year period. The transition provisions outline how current commissioners will complete their terms and how new commissioners will be selected, with the first appointed commissioners to be named by January 1, 2027. The bill aims to professionalize the PSC by ensuring more qualified and independent oversight of public utilities.

Government Affairs, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC4454