This bill proposes significant changes to the structure and election process of the Public Service Commission of West Virginia. It amends section 24-1-3 of the Code of West Virginia to eliminate the current appointment process for commission members by the Governor and instead establish a system where members are elected on a nonpartisan basis. The bill introduces a new section, 24-1-3a, which outlines that beginning with the primary election in 2026, three commissioners will be elected to serve six-year terms, with the initial election featuring staggered terms of two, four, and six years for the three members. This change aims to enhance the democratic process and accountability of the commission.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that the elected commissioners will represent three divisions corresponding to the state's previous congressional districts. It also provides for the procedure to fill any vacancies that may arise, allowing the Governor to appoint a new commissioner for the remainder of the unexpired term. Overall, the bill seeks to reform the Public Service Commission by transitioning from an appointed to an elected body, thereby promoting greater public participation in the governance of public utilities in West Virginia.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 24-1-3, 24-1-3a