Bill > SB842

This bill, the Public Service Commission Flexibility Act, establishes that the Public Service Commission's (PSC) authority is an essential government function, expands the duties of the Executive Secretary to include directing administrative affairs and approving expenses, and allows for the designation of a Deputy Executive Secretary to act in the Executive Secretary's absence. It also requires the PSC to submit its operating program budget to the Department of Budget and Management for informational purposes annually, maintain business and accounting records according to generally accepted principles, and undergo an independent audit of its accounts and transactions each fiscal year. Furthermore, the bill grants the PSC more flexibility in hiring and retaining various experts and personnel, including financial, modeling, and climate experts, and establishes an independent personnel management system for PSC employees based on merit, with fair procedures for hiring, promotion, termination, and grievance resolution, while ensuring these employees retain rights and benefits as state employees for transfer purposes. The bill also exempts the PSC from state and local taxation and clarifies that certain state finance and procurement laws do not apply to the PSC.

Education

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0842?ys=2026RS