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Clare Today
By the People, for the People
Michigan Lawmakers Propose Electing Utility Regulators
Bills would make state's public service commission an elected body, a shift from current governor-appointed system.
Published on Mar. 6, 2026
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A group of Michigan House Democrats have introduced proposals that would require members of the state's public service commission, which regulates utilities, to be elected by voters rather than appointed by the governor. The policy bills aim to give residents more oversight over decisions that affect their electricity rates, which have more than doubled in the past 20 years.
Why it matters
The proposed change to an elected public service commission is in response to growing public frustration over repeated utility rate hikes approved by the current governor-appointed panel. Supporters argue that electing commissioners would provide more accountability and transparency around decisions that impact residents' utility costs.
The details
Under the plan, the three-member public service commission would expand to five members. Political parties would nominate candidates and voters would elect commissioners to staggered four-year terms, with a 12-year cap on service. The bills were introduced by 13 Democratic state representatives, though it's unlikely the Republican-controlled legislature will act on them given the significant shift in power the proposal represents.
- The policy bills were introduced on Thursday, March 6, 2026.
- If passed, the elected public service commission would take effect starting in 2028.
The players
Gretchen Whitmer
The Democratic governor of Michigan, who currently appoints members to the three-person public service commission.
Jimmie Wilson Jr.
The Democratic state representative who introduced the bills to elect public service commissioners.
Matt Hall
The Republican speaker of the Michigan House of Representatives, who sent the bills to a committee where they are likely to stall.
Jim Runestad
The Republican state senator who previously sponsored a bill to make public service commissioners elected positions.
What they’re saying
“Electing public service commissioners is not a change that benefits any one political party; it is a necessary choice we must give Michigan residents so they can decide who makes decisions that affect their rates down the line.”
— Jimmie Wilson Jr., State Representative (centredaily.com)
“It is time to give the people of Michigan more oversight when it comes to our utility providers and to shine more light on this powerful and influential interest group.”
— Jim Runestad, State Senator (centredaily.com)
What’s next
The bills have been referred to the House Government Operations Committee, where they are likely to face an uphill battle. Even if they pass the legislature, they would still require the signature of Governor Whitmer, who currently has the power to appoint public service commissioners.
The takeaway
The push to elect utility regulators in Michigan reflects growing public frustration over rising electricity costs and a desire for more accountability over decisions that impact residents' monthly bills. While the proposal faces an uncertain future, it highlights the political tensions surrounding utility regulation and the balance of power between elected officials and appointed regulatory bodies.
