Substitute House Bill No. 7243 introduces new qualifications for appointees to the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) and enhances conflict of interest regulations for utility commissioners. Effective October 1, 2025, the bill requires that newly appointed commissioners possess 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 violations from PURA or have engaged in litigation with the agency.

The bill revises conflict of interest provisions, extending the recusal period for utility commissioners from one year to five years after leaving their position concerning matters involving their former employers. It clarifies that no utility commissioner or employee of the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection can have substantial conflicts of interest related to their duties. These changes aim to enhance the integrity and effectiveness of PURA while ensuring that appointees are qualified to serve the public interest. The effective date for these changes is set for October 1, 2025.

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