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HB 364

PUBLIC SERVICE COMN: (Constitutional Amendment) Increases the membership of the Public Service Commission (OR +$1,285,171 SG EX See Note)

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Daryl Deshotel

Louisiana constitutional amendment increases Public Service Commission membership, adding approximately $1.3 million in annual state expenditures for expanded regulatory oversight.

Read by title, under the rules, referred to the Committee on Commerce.
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Bill Summary · HB 364

Legislative bill overview

HB 364 proposes a constitutional amendment to increase the membership size of Louisiana's Public Service Commission (PSC), the regulatory body overseeing utilities and telecommunications. The bill includes a fiscal note indicating a state general fund expenditure of approximately $1.285 million.

Why is this important

The PSC directly regulates rates and service standards for electricity, natural gas, water, and telecommunications—utilities affecting every Louisiana household and business. Changes to the commission's structure could influence how efficiently it operates, the diversity of perspectives in regulatory decisions, and the overall cost to taxpayers for administrative operations.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost justification: The $1.285 million fiscal impact raises questions about whether adding commissioners is fiscally necessary or if efficiency improvements could address regulatory gaps without expanding the agency
  • Partisan/representation concerns: Larger commissions can affect political balance and influence depending on how additional seats are filled; unclear whether this benefits urban, rural, industrial, or consumer interests disproportionately
  • Regulatory speed and decision-making: More commissioners could either improve deliberation through diverse viewpoints or slow decision-making on time-sensitive utility matters affecting consumers and businesses

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

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