Montana interim committee advances bill to replace elected PSC with appointed utilities commission

Representative Bob Carter (sponsor) presented a draft to replace Montana's five‑member elected Public Service Commission with a nominated and governor‑appointed Public Utilities Commission. The proposed nominating committee would include seven nonpartisan members (legislative and executive appointees, a tribal representative and energy bureau representatives) who would forward a slate of at least two nominees per opening to the governor. Carter said nominees would be required to meet professional qualifications (education and experience) and a 60% Senate confirmation threshold would apply to strengthen vetting and continuity.Civic and business testimony was strongly supportive in public comment. Todd O'Hair, president and CEO of the Montana Chamber of Commerce, said his coalition of business groups favors a more professional regulator to provide predictability for the billions of dollars of investments expected over the next decade. "We want a regulatory body that provides predictability, consistency and reduces political influence," O'Hair said.From committee debate, supporters argued the change would reduce the risk that elections produce frequent turnover and politicized decisionmaking for complex quasi‑judicial regulatory matters. Critics and some members emphasized the need for careful drafting to avoid unintended consequences and to preserve consumer protections; the committee agreed to advance the draft to session. The committee recorded a roll‑call vote and moved the measure forward by unanimous recorded 'Aye' votes.