Proposals to streamline New Mexico's utility regulatory agency and establish minimum qualifications for its elected members sped through the House on Thursday. 

Supporters contend the proposals to revamp the Public Regulation Commission will make it more efficient and should ensure that elected regulators are better prepared for the increasingly complex utility and telecommunications issues they must decide. 

"This is a baby step, but it is a step in the right direction in trying to improve the actions that this particular agency is taking," said Rep. Larry Larranaga, an Albuquerque Republican. 

The House unanimously approved three constitutional amendments for overhauling the PRC and sent them to the Senate for consideration. If endorsed by the Legislature, the proposals will be placed on the November general election ballot and voters will decide whether to adopt the changes. 

The PRC was created by a 1996 constitutional amendment that merged two regulatory agencies, and for years there have been proposals in the Legislature to reorganize the sprawling commission that regulates utilities, telecommunications, insurance and motor carriers such as ambulances and taxis. The agency also registers corporations, oversees safety of railroad crossings and houses the State Fire Marshal's Office, which investigates arson and enforces fire safety requirements in buildings. 

But the reform push gained momentum after scandals that forced two PRC members to resign in the past two years. Jerome Block Jr. stepped down last year after pleading guilty to misuse of a state-issued credit card and violations of campaign finance laws. 

One measure approved by the House will move insurance from the PRC and create an independent regulator appointed by the governor. Another proposal transfers the registration of corporations from the PRC to the Secretary of State's Office, which handles registration of partnerships. 

If voters adopt the proposal for minimum qualifications for PRC candidates, it will be up to the Legislature to establish the specific standards. Currently, a PRC candidate needs only to be 18, a New Mexico resident for at least one year and have no felony convictions. 

An independent think tank, Think New Mexico, has suggested requiring a college degree or several years of professional experience in certain areas, such as law or economics. 

Rep. Dennis Kintigh, a Roswell Republican, questioned whether the PRC will fundamentally change even if minimum standards are required of its members. 

"The voters have chosen these individuals that have for the last number of years engaged in conduct that has been detrimental to this state. Just by putting a few additional credentialing requirements does not ensure quality of character," said Kintigh. 

Rep. Joseph Cervantes, a Las Cruces Democrat, agreed, saying "I don't believe we can legislate character." But he said PRC members are similar to judges in making regulatory decisions and New Mexico establishes minimum requirements for state judges.





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