Does the Public Utility Staff have resources to aggressively investigate rate hike requests? Is it? Should the attorney general’s office have more of a role in consumer protection involving rate hikes? Should PSC commissioners be elected, especially when most other states have abandoned an elective system?
It is clear that the Public Utilities Staff should remain independent. Professional staffers do not need to be subjected to potential political influence. While this PSC has been above reproach, history has shown the danger in the old system.
Lawmakers should ensure the PSC has the resources it needs to protect ratepayers. But, this should be done during a regular session without all of the partisan fighting.
As far as “power” politics goes, it is good that the lights have finally been turned off at the Capitol.
Clarion Ledger Editorial
7/12/9
