Public Service Commission under attack

[Bob Wells]

I read the Florida House is trying to dismantle the Public Service Commission. It seems they want it directed by the Legislature. These are the folks that are to protect us from unreasonable increases by utilities. Supposedly this is something that has been filed. Now those folks who accept money from that lobby will also be overseeing them, that gives me the warm and fuzzys.

 

[Matt J]

There must be something really good being smoked in Florida's largest phallic symbol.

Among other things they are attempting to decrease law enforcements pay state wide while freezing their wages.

Wonder what will happen when the legislators pay comes up for a vote?

 

[futurebeachbum]

Here's a link to an article "Bill would gut PSC, give power to Legislature" from the St. Petersburg times.

Not being a FL voter (in spite of owning more homes there than here in Ga) I am woefully underinformed about the state government there.

In Ga, the PSC commissioners are elected officials, independent of the Governor and the Legislature. They answer to the voters. Reading this article, it sounds like they are appointed by the Governor in FL. Is that correct?

While there are may be some downsides to having them independently elected, I much prefer that to having them politically appointed.

 

[Matt J]

I prefer appointments. How is someone who is elected and receives campaign contributions from every utility in the state going to render a fair decision?

 

[scooterbug44]

Why do they have to be appointed OR elected?

Why can't it just be a job performed by someone with experience, qualifications, and NO TIES OR PAYBACKS required to anyone because of campaign contributions OR party affiliation?