Senate Bill No. [insert number] proposes significant revisions to the selection process for members of the Public Service Commission in Montana. The bill amends several sections of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA), specifically sections 69-1-103, 69-1-104, 69-1-105, and 69-1-106. Key changes include a reduction in the number of public service commission districts from five to two, with two members elected on a partisan basis from separate districts and three members appointed by the governor, subject to Senate confirmation. The qualifications for both elected and appointed commissioners are also clarified, requiring a minimum of four years of separation from any professional affiliation with regulated entities and prohibiting financial interests in such entities.

Additionally, the bill establishes a new process for appointing commissioners, ensuring that candidates meet specific qualifications before being nominated by the governor. It also outlines the transition for current commissioners and sets term limits, allowing elected and appointed commissioners to serve a maximum of 12 years within a 24-year period. The bill includes provisions for the immediate effective date upon passage and approval, as well as a severability clause to maintain the validity of the remaining provisions if any part of the act is found invalid.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 69-1-103, 69-1-104, 69-1-105, 69-1-106
SB0561_1(1): 69-1-103, 69-1-104, 69-1-105, 69-1-106
SB0561_1(2): 69-1-103, 69-1-104, 69-1-105, 69-1-106
SB0561_1(3): 69-1-103, 69-1-104, 69-1-105, 69-1-106
SB0561_1(4): 69-1-103, 69-1-104, 69-1-105, 69-1-106
SB0561_1(5): 69-1-103, 69-1-104, 69-1-105, 69-1-106
SB0561_1: 69-1-103, 69-1-104, 69-1-105, 69-1-106