Bill > HB5475

This bill proposes to change how members of the Public Service Commission (PSC) are selected, moving from gubernatorial appointment to nonpartisan elections. Specifically, starting with the 2026 primary election, three commissioners will be elected to six-year terms, with each commissioner representing one of three divisions that correspond to the state's former congressional districts. The bill also outlines an initial staggered election in 2027 for the first set of elected commissioners, with terms of two, four, and six years to ensure continuity, and establishes that any vacancies will be filled by gubernatorial appointment for the remainder of the unexpired term. The Public Service Commission is a state agency responsible for regulating public utilities like electricity, natural gas, and water.

Justice

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=5475&year=2026&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill