This bill seeks to amend the West Virginia Code concerning the Public Service Commission (PSC) by enhancing transparency and accountability among its commissioners. Key provisions include a requirement for PSC commissioners to publish their financial statements online and to post a bond of $100,000 upon appointment to ensure they fulfill their duties responsibly. The bill also emphasizes the importance of affordability in utility rates, shifting the PSC's focus to prioritize this aspect in its decision-making processes.

Furthermore, the legislation introduces new criteria for assessing the public interest, which now includes factors such as the affordability of electricity, the use of diverse energy sources, and opportunities for modernizing the electric grid. It also prohibits individuals with recent ties to regulated entities from serving as commissioners and applies the West Virginia rules of judicial conduct to ensure impartiality. Outdated provisions are repealed, and the commission's authority is clarified, streamlining its functions and reinforcing its commitment to ethical standards in regulating utility services.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 6B-2-6, 24-1-1, 24-1-3, 24-1-7, 24-1-1a, 24-1-1b