This bill amends the regulations governing the Regulatory Commission of Alaska, specifically addressing the term of the chair and the qualifications for commission members. It establishes that the chair of the commission will be elected annually from among its members and clarifies that a member cannot continue to serve as chair after their term as a commissioner expires, even if they remain in office under certain conditions. Additionally, the bill limits the chair to a maximum of three successive terms and allows for re-election after a one-year hiatus.
Furthermore, the bill introduces a requirement that at least one member of the commission must reside in a rural community served by an electric utility that benefits from power cost equalization. It also outlines the qualifications necessary for appointment as a commissioner, which include being a member of the Alaska Bar Association, a registered professional engineer, or holding a relevant degree with significant experience in the field. The bill ensures that current members of the commission will continue to serve until their terms expire, with the governor responsible for filling any vacancies that arise after the bill's effective date.
Statutes affected: HB0175A, AM HB 175, introduced 04/09/2025: 42.04.010, 42.04.020, 42.45.100, 42.45.150