MN Republican legislators take aim at reshaping state's Public Utilities Commission

ST. PAUL -- Minnesota Republicans are taking early aim this legislative session at a little-discussed state commission that has a big say on energy issues.

Republicans, who control the House and Senate, have introduced a half-dozen bills that would change the power and makeup of the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission, a five-member group appointed by the governor that has the power to regulate the state’s big electricity, gas and telecommunication companies. The proposals run the gamut, from changing the commission’s abilities to oversee and review new natural gas and pipeline projects to where its members come from in the state.

http://www.bemidjipioneer.com/news/region/4211072-mn-republican-legislators-take-aim-reshaping-states-public-utilities-commission