State Corporation Commission; election of members, notice, applicant interviews.
Impact
The newly established procedure for filling vacancies is particularly noteworthy. If a vacancy occurs while the General Assembly is in session, it must elect a successor within 60 days of notice. Conversely, if there is a vacancy when the General Assembly is not in session, the Governor will make a temporary appointment. This dual approach ensures that the Commission remains functional and can continue to carry out its regulatory duties without significant delays, thereby enhancing operational efficiency.
Summary
House Bill 1935 amends existing legislation regarding the State Corporation Commission in Virginia. The bill aims to redefine the process for the election or appointment of members to the Commission, which comprises three members. Under the new provisions outlined in the bill, members will be elected by a joint vote of the two houses of the General Assembly for staggered six-year terms. This change emphasizes the shared responsibility and collaborative governance between the two legislative bodies while aiming to enhance the democratic process in electing commission members.
Contention
A significant addition is the requirement for public notice regarding upcoming or existing vacancies on the Commission. Such notice must be posted on the official website of the Commission, and interested individuals are afforded a minimum of 15 days to submit their applications. This increased transparency is designed to encourage broader public engagement and to ensure that the interview processes conducted by the respective Senate and House committees are open to the public, fostering a sense of accountability.
Notable_points
The bill seeks to create a more transparent and accessible process for the community and stakeholders interested in participating in the governance of the State Corporation Commission. By mandating public inspection during the interview process, it addresses concerns about the thoroughness and integrity of the selection process. Overall, HB1935 reflects an effort to enhance oversight and democratic governance within the state.