House Bill No. [insert bill number] proposes significant changes to the structure and selection process of the Public Service Commission in Montana. The bill stipulates that the commission will consist of five members, with two members elected from separate districts and three appointed by the governor, who must be confirmed by the senate. The bill amends existing sections of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA) to redefine the composition of the commission, reducing the number of public service commission districts from five to two, based on federal house districts. It also establishes new qualifications for appointed commissioners, requiring them to have industry expertise and a minimum of two years' separation from any regulated entity.

Additionally, the bill outlines the process for filling vacancies, emphasizing that appointees must be from the same political party as the former incumbent if applicable. It introduces term limits for both elected and appointed commissioners, allowing them to serve a maximum of 12 years within a 24-year period. The bill includes provisions for the transition of current commissioners and sets an immediate effective date upon passage and approval. Overall, this legislation aims to enhance the governance and accountability of the Public Service Commission by revising its membership structure and selection process.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 69-1-103, 69-1-104, 69-1-105, 69-1-106
HB0363_1(1): 69-1-103, 69-1-104, 69-1-105, 69-1-106
HB0363_1(2): 69-1-103, 69-1-104, 69-1-105, 69-1-106
HB0363_1(3): 69-1-103, 69-1-104, 69-1-105, 69-1-106
HB0363_1(4): 69-1-103, 69-1-104, 69-1-105, 69-1-106
HB0363_1: 69-1-103, 69-1-104, 69-1-105, 69-1-106