Section 15.79. Public service commission; creation.

 

(1)  There is created a public service commission consisting of one chairperson and 2 commissioners. The chairperson and any commissioner may not have a financial interest in a railroad, water carrier, or public utility. If the chairperson or a commissioner voluntarily becomes so interested, the chairperson's or commissioner's office shall become vacant. If the chairperson or commissioner involuntarily becomes so interested, the chairperson's or commissioner's office shall become vacant unless the chairperson or commissioner divests himself or herself of the interest within a reasonable time. The chairperson and each commissioner shall hold office until a successor is appointed and qualified.

(2)  The chairperson and each commissioner of the public service commission may not do any of the following:

(a) Be a candidate for public office in any election.

(b) Directly or indirectly solicit or receive any contribution, as defined in s. 11.0101 (8) , from any person within or outside of the state.

(c) Act as an officer or manager for any candidate, political party, or committee organized to promote the candidacy of any person for any public office.

(d) Serve on or under any committee of a political party.

1979 c. 171 ; 2005 a. 179 ; 2011 a. 155 ; 2015 a. 55 , 117 . A public service commissioner may attend a political party convention as a delegate. 61 Atty. Gen. 265.