House Bill No. 413 proposes significant changes to the structure and operation of the Public Service Commission in Louisiana. The bill increases the membership of the commission from five to seven members, with five members elected from single-member districts and two members appointed by the governor to represent the state-at-large. It also establishes qualifications for both elected and appointed members, stipulating that all members must be at least eighteen years old and have resided in the state for the preceding two years. The elected members will serve overlapping six-year terms, while the appointed members will serve at the governor's pleasure for a maximum of two consecutive four-year terms.

Additionally, the bill modifies the quorum requirement for the commission, increasing it from three to four commissioners for conducting business. It ensures that there is sufficient staffing for the appointed commissioners to effectively serve the state-at-large. The bill clarifies that each elected commissioner in office as of January 1, 2023, will continue to represent their respective districts and complete their elected terms. Overall, this legislation aims to enhance the governance and functionality of the Public Service Commission by expanding its membership and refining its operational guidelines.

Statutes affected:
HB413 Original: 45:2(B), 45:4(B)