Tennessee Senate Bill SJR0847

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/22/24
• Engrossed: 2/12/24
• Enrolled: 2/27/24
• Passed: 3/6/24

Caption

A RESOLUTION to confirm the appointment of Herbert Hilliard as a commissioner of the Tennessee Public Utility Commission.

Impact

By confirming Herbert Hilliard, who has extensive experience in the utilities sector, the resolution supports continuity within the Tennessee Public Utility Commission. Hilliard's previous roles, including his tenure at First Horizon National Corporation, lend credence to his capability to guide the commission effectively. This appointment, valid until June 30, 2029, assures stakeholders of expert leadership in regulatory decisions affecting public utilities, which can have far-reaching implications for consumers and service providers alike.

Summary

SJR0847 is a resolution aimed at confirming the appointment of Herbert Hilliard as a commissioner of the Tennessee Public Utility Commission. The resolution outlines the legal framework for such appointments under Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Section 65-1-101, which mandates that the governor appoint two commissioners for the commission. This particular resolution signifies not just a procedural step but also an endorsement of Hilliard's continued role in a pivotal regulatory body overseeing utility services in Tennessee.

Contention

While the resolution appears to have been passed unanimously, with a vote of 33 yeas to 0 nays, it is still critical to consider the broader context of regulatory appointments. Appointments to regulatory commissions can sometimes trigger debates about the individual’s qualifications, industry connections, and potential influence on policy outcomes, especially in sectors as vital as public utilities. In this case, Hilliard's extensive background may indicate a favorable direction for utility regulation, though discussions in some circles may still arise regarding the representation of diverse interests in such appointments.