Lawmaker Pushes for Name Change of Corporation Commission to Boost Public Awareness

Arizona lawmakers, activists, and members of the Arizona Corporation Commission have expressed concerns that voters often overlook the importance of this utility regulation body. To address this issue, Senator Lauren Kuby, D-Tempe, has proposed a change to the agency’s name to “Public Utility and Corporation Commission.”

Having run for the Corporation Commission in 2022, Kuby frequently found herself explaining the commission’s role to voters. This experience inspired her to introduce a concurrent resolution aimed at improving public awareness of the commission’s functions.

“When I mentioned my candidacy, I often said, ‘This is the most important office that no one has ever heard of,’” Kuby remarked. “It really is the fourth branch of government, and the current title doesn’t accurately represent its responsibilities.”

The Corporation Commission, composed of five members elected statewide for four-year terms, regulates essential public utility companies, including those handling electric, water, and gas services. It also registers businesses and oversees securities, railroads, and pipelines.

One of its main functions is to determine utility rates, ensuring accountability for major companies like Arizona Public Service and Tucson Electric Power. Kuby believes that a name change would better reflect the commission’s daily impact on residents’ lives.

“A more descriptive title could lead to greater public awareness,” she said. “The majority of other states with utility regulation bodies include ‘public utility’ in their names, highlighting their role.”

Historically, Arizona’s Corporation Commission was established in 1912 under the state’s Constitution. Any name change would require a constitutional amendment, hence Kuby’s proposal would need to be referred to voters for consideration in 2026.

However, some challenges may arise as the referral faces a potentially tough path in the legislature, especially given that it was introduced by a Democrat. Sandy Bahr, executive director of the Sierra Club’s Grand Canyon chapter, supports Kuby’s idea, arguing that the commission’s name influences public engagement.

“Adding ‘public utility’ would enhance transparency and connect issues more directly to people’s daily lives,” Bahr stated. “The old name belongs to a different era; much of the commission’s work now revolves around utility regulation.”

In contrast, Rep. Justin Olson, R-Mesa, who served on the commission from 2017 to 2023, acknowledges the lack of public awareness but questions the necessity of altering the name. “While I’m not opposed to the idea, I think the existing name is sufficient,” he mentioned.

Olson emphasized the ongoing need for voter education, indicating that public officials should prioritize making the commission’s work understood among constituents. Bahr added that the commission could improve accessibility by simplifying agendas and explanations during public hearings.

“The first time I attended a Corporation Commission meeting, it felt like a foreign language,” Bahr recalled. She also suggested opening up public participation, allowing constituents to speak during hearings or participate in evening comment periods.

The current commission members have yet to publicly state their positions on the proposed name change. Commissioner Lea Marquez Peterson, who emphasizes transparency, opted not to comment directly but referenced a statement from the commission’s spokesperson.

Commission spokesperson Nicole Garcia conveyed neutrality regarding Kuby’s proposal, clarifying, “Changing the name of the Arizona Corporation Commission would not change the agency’s mission or purpose. If it is approved by the Legislature and signed into law by the Governor, we will process accordingly.”