An Act To Clarify the Role of the Public Advocate
Be it enacted by the People of the State of Maine as follows:
Sec. 1. 5 MRSA §12004-I, sub-§92, as enacted by PL 2007, c. 657, §1, is repealed.
Sec. 2. 35-A MRSA §1702, sub-§§9 and 10 are enacted to read:
9. Other advocacy forums. The Public Advocate, consistent with the priorities established in section 1702-A and the requirements of this chapter, may represent and promote the interests of the using and consuming public:
A. In appropriate proceedings of the Legislature; and
B. In regional or national forums, including but not limited to any proceeding of an independent system operator or the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.
10. Independent representation of the interests of the using and consuming public. The Public Advocate, when taking a position on any matter in any proceeding or forum pursuant to the Public Advocate's authority under this chapter, shall exercise independent judgment to ensure the position:
A. Is consistent with the priorities established in section 1702-A and the requirements of this chapter; and
B. Promotes stabilization and lowering of prices paid by those members of the using and consuming public whose interests the Public Advocate is representing.
Sec. 3. 35-A MRSA §1712, as enacted by PL 2007, c. 657, §2, is repealed.
Effective 90 days following adjournment of the 125th Legislature, First Regular Session, unless otherwise indicated.