Friday, during Alabama Public Television's "Capitol Journal," State Sen. Arthur Orr (R-Decatur) reiterated his concerns about House Bill 392 (HB 392) and similar legislation, which would change how Alabama's Public Service Commission is selected.
Under current law, the board is elected, but under HB 392, sponsored by State Rep. Chip Brown (R-Hollinger's Island), the governor, the State House Speaker and the State Senate Pro Tem would appoint members.
According to Orr, the more the public becomes aware of the proposal, the greater its "concern grows."
"Yes, I think that's a fair assessment based on what I know regarding making the Public Service Commission an appointed board and not an elected board," Orr said of the Senate chamber's concern with the bill. "I think that's one of those public entities that the duty that they have as far as watching electrical power rates and things like that, the public perceives as kind of a watchdog or protection against increased power rates and bills, and that's important to them. And I've heard from constituents already on the issue."
SEE ALSO: State Sen. Orr: 'Support has certainly not gelled around' PSC appointment bill in Senate
He continued, "I know my colleagues have, and the bill hasn't been aired out that much as far as I know in the media and as far as the public knowledge of, 'Oh, there's a bill in Montgomery that would change the governance of the PSC.' And as the public learns about it, I think their concern grows."
Jeff Poor is the editor-in-chief of 1819 News and host of "The Jeff Poor Show," heard Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-noon on Mobile's FM Talk 106.5. To connect or comment, email [email protected] or follow him on Twitter @jeff_poor.
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