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Bill Summary · SB 285

Bill Overview

  • Bill: SB 285
  • Session: 2026 Regular Session (Kentucky)
  • Jurisdiction: Kentucky
  • Subject: An Act relating to the Public Service Commission
  • Status: Introduced in Senate (2/27/2026); referred to Committee on Committees (S)

Purpose and Intent

The bill makes amendments to the statutory framework governing the Public Service Commission (PSC) in Kentucky. The core intent appears to be reorganizing or reaffirming the composition, appointment process, and leadership structure of the PSC, as originally established in statute.

Key Provisions

  1. PSC Composition and Appointments (KRS 278.050, amended):

    • The PSC shall consist of three members.
    • Members are appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate.
    • If the Senate is not in session when a term expires or a vacancy occurs, the Governor may appoint to take effect immediately, subject to Senate approval when convened.
    • Appointments made more than 90 days before a regular session are subject to confirmation by the Joint Interim Committee on Energy.
    • Initial staggered terms (established historically in the text) specify:
      • One member serves until July 1, 1983
      • One member serves until July 1, 1984
      • One member serves until July 1, 1985
      • Thereafter, terms are four years, continuing until a successor is appointed and qualified.
    • Each PSC member must be a full-time employee as defined by KRS 18A.005(17).

  2. Leadership of the PSC:

    • The Governor shall appoint one commissioner to act as chairman; the chairman will be the chief executive officer of the PSC.
    • The Governor shall designate one commissioner to serve as vice chairman, who will act for the chairman in the latter’s absence.

  3. Vacancies and Unexpired Terms:

    • Vacancies for unexpired terms are to be filled in the same manner as original appointments.
    • The appointee for an unexpired term serves only until the end of the unexpired term.

Who/What Is Affected

  • The Public Service Commission (PSC) and its governance structure.
  • The Governor, the Senate (consent/confirmation process), and the Joint Interim Committee on Energy (for interim confirmations).
  • PSC commissioners, who must be full-time employees and will have defined leadership roles (chairman/vice chairman).

Procedural and Timeline Notes

  • Appointments require the Governor’s nomination and Senate confirmation.
  • If a term ends or a vacancy occurs while the Senate is not in session, the Governor may appoint temporarily, with Senate confirmation when convened.
  • Interim confirmations for early appointments (more than 90 days before a regular session) involve the Joint Interim Committee on Energy.
  • Initial staggering of terms is specified, with four-year terms commencing after the initial staggered periods.

Potential Impact

  • Clarifies and formalizes the appointment and leadership process for the PSC.
  • Ensures the PSC remains a three-member, full-time body with defined leadership roles.
  • Aims to provide continuity and clarity in governance during vacancies or interim periods.
  • Could affect how quickly certain appointments are confirmed, particularly during session gaps or interim periods.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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