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LPSC REFORM, PHASE I:
Response to Legislative Auditor’s Performance Audit
- Commissioner Foster Campbell
1. I propose an immediate moratorium on the acceptance of
meals and gifts from utilities by commissioners and staff.
(Audit Pages 28-29)
2. I propose that the LPSC prohibit utilities from
charging ratepayers for expenses associated with
entertaining public officials and public employees. While
this may already be Commission policy, I would like to see
a specific rule in that regard. This rule shall apply to
all local and state public officials and employees. (Page
29)
3. I propose that commissioners and staff be prohibited
from attending educational seminars hosted by utility
companies unless the LPSC pays all costs. (Page 28)
4. I propose that, from this point forward, regulated
utilities be prohibited from hiring immediate family
members of LPSC commissioners and staff.
5. The LPSC should confirm that it can and will issue
penalties to utilities that violate the above rules.
6. I propose that LPSC staff be charged with reviewing the
accuracy and reasonableness of LPSC outside consultant and
counsel billing. Requiring utilities to perform this task
creates a potential conflict of interest that could
undermine the independence of outside consultants and
counsel. (Page 18)
7. I propose that the LPSC take the necessary steps to
uphold its General Order requiring biannual audits of
utility fuel-adjustment charges. (Page 21)
8. I propose that the LPSC coordinate with the National
Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners (NARUC) to
conduct a study comparing operations of other state
utility commissions with that of the LPSC.
9. I propose that the LPSC work jointly with the
Department of Civil Service to analyze LPSC staffing
levels and compensation. The Commission should use the
Civil Service analysis and NARUC study mentioned above to
approach the Legislature for increased LPSC staff and
compensation. (Page 19)
10. I propose that the LPSC professionalize its
headquarters reception staff and all points of contact
with the public. Employees at all levels should be
motivated to act in a professional, consumer-friendly
manner at all times.
11. I propose that the LPSC develop a plan to present to
the Legislature for a full-time, independent State Office
of Consumer Advocate to represent ratepayers in matters
before the LPSC.
12. I propose that utilities be invited to submit ideas
for ratepayer cost-savings and that the LPSC explore
possible incentives for utilities to save costs.
13. I propose that the LPSC establish a procedure for
regular audits of customer bills to ensure compliance with
LPSC requirements, accuracy and clarity. (Page 15)
14. I propose that the LPSC commit to and budget for at
least four monthly Business and Executive meetings outside
Baton Rouge each fiscal year.
15. I propose that the LPSC develop a Phase II Reform Plan
once the above measures are under way. Phase II would
include, but not be limited to, 1) organized and
convenient public access to utility information on rate
charges, policies and procedures, and billing guidelines;
2) a more user-friendly and searchable LPSC website; 3) a
standardized, published fee list for Commission services;
and 4) established procedures for rulemaking proceedings.
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