Substitute House Bill No. 7243 introduces new qualifications and conflict of interest regulations for the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) commissioners, effective October 1, 2025. The bill stipulates that newly appointed commissioners must have specific expertise: one must have a background in economics, accounting, forensic auditing, or financial regulation; another must have experience in utility customer advocacy along with public service or administration; and a third must hold a law degree with experience in administrative or utility regulatory law. Additionally, at least half of the commissioners must not have prior employment with any entity regulated by PURA. The bill also disqualifies individuals from serving as commissioners if they are executives of companies that have received notices of violation from PURA or have been involved in litigation with PURA.

The bill significantly revises conflict of interest provisions, extending the recusal period for commissioners from one year to five years after leaving their position concerning matters involving former employers. It clarifies that no commissioner or employee of the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection can have any substantial financial interest that conflicts with their duties. These changes aim to enhance the integrity and effectiveness of PURA while ensuring that appointees possess the necessary qualifications and experience to serve the public interest.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 1-92, 1-96, 1-101
GAE Joint Favorable Substitute: 16-2
File No. 653: 16-2