Reform PSC now

Most South Carolinians may not know much about their Public Service Commission, even though it can have a huge impact on their pocketbooks. The PSC regulates and approves - or disapproves - rate changes for state utilities.

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Last year the agency came under fire from the Legislative Audit Council, which serves as the investigative wing of the General Assembly. The council found evidence of nepotism, cronyism, incompetence and possible corruption.

Serving on the PSC, which pays $78,000 a year, not including per diem and mileage that pushes the rate even higher, is nice work if you can get it.

And because the legislature picks the members, your chances of being named are considerably improved if you are related to or know a lawmaker - or, even better, lawmakers.

What isn't necessary are standards of education, experience and competence to ensure that panel members understand the technical and economic complexities of their regulatory and rate-setting tasks.

This, however, will change when legislation working its way through the General Assembly gets to the governor's desk. The question is, will it get there this year or will it be held over until next year?

Obviously there's no reason to delay. The House has already passed its reforms and it remains only for the Senate to get busy.

Proposed changes call for prospective PSC members to be college graduates, to pass a competency test and to bring other credentials to the post to ensure all seven members on the commission are qualified to serve.

South Carolinians should not have to wait any longer to be assured they have a competent, professional Public Service Commission making the decisions that vitally impact what they pay for electricity, natural gas and telecommunications.

--From the Thursday, May 29, 2003 printed edition of the Augusta Chronicle