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Committee recommends 'do not pass' on proposal to expand Public Service Commission from three to five members
Summary
Senators voted unanimously to recommend a do‑not‑pass on a concurrent resolution that would have placed a constitutional amendment on the ballot to change the Public Service Commission from three statewide commissioners to five district‑elected members.
The Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee voted 7‑0 to recommend a do‑not‑pass on a concurrent resolution that would have placed a constitutional amendment on the ballot to expand the North Dakota Public Service Commission from three statewide commissioners to five commissioners elected by district.
Senators raised concerns that districting commissioners could increase politicization and that commissioners must serve as full‑time regulators in Bismarck. “To have somebody live in a district and based by population… but then have to work in Bismarck full time, doesn’t make sense to me,” one senator said during committee debate. Members also noted the amendment would change term lengths and could increase staffing costs for the commission.
Supporters of the resolution had argued the change would alter representation and workload; opponents said the commission’s regulatory role requires independence from local politics and the measure could add cost and complexity. Committee members referenced other states’ choices but said the Public Service Commission has “been very adequately and professionally represented” under the current structure.
After debate the committee adopted a do‑not‑pass recommendation by voice vote and roll call. Senator Gerhardt agreed to carry the resolution.
