Norman Horton Takes Aim at Alabama Public Service Commission Reform
- Staff Writer
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
By Staff Writer February 28, 2028
ECHO, AL – State House District 93 candidate Stormin’ Norman Horton has unveiled a sweeping legislative proposal to overhaul the Alabama Public Service Commission (PSC). The plan targets the rising utility costs facing Alabamians by demanding transparency and ending what Horton describes as "backroom handouts" to out-of-state interests.
The PSC is responsible for regulating rates for electricity, natural gas, and telecommunications. Horton argues that the current system favors tech giants and "Wall Street" over the average ratepayer.
A Two-Pronged Approach to Reform
Horton’s plan focuses on restructuring the commission's leadership and tightening the rules on how utility rates are determined.
1. Structural Accountability
To reduce the influence of "dark money" and career politics, Horton proposes:
Term Limits: Commissioners would serve a single six-year term, while the PSC President would be limited to one eight-year term.
Financial Transparency: PACs contributing to PSC campaigns must trace every dollar back to its original source.
Salary Caps: Commissioner pay would be tied to Alabama’s per capita income, mirroring the legislative pay structure.
2. Ratepayer Protections
Horton’s "Smart Growth" strategy for utility regulation includes:
Public Access: All rate hearings must be open to the public (in-person or electronic), with a mandatory public hearing 60 minutes before any vote.
Data Center Oversight: Full cost-benefit reports would be required before approving energy-heavy data center hookups.
Inflation Caps: Rate increases would be legally capped at the rate of inflation.
Digital Transparency: Every vote and financial transaction would be posted online for public review.
"Alabamians are getting crushed by utility bills while the PSC rubber-stamps sweetheart deals," Horton stated. "This isn't about stopping growth—it's about smart growth. Alabama deserves a PSC that answers to us."
Horton has pledged to sponsor this reform bill personally if elected to the House.
Candidate Contact Information
Stormin' Norman Horton for House District 93
Address: 14057 E Highway 27, Echo, AL 36353
Phone: 334-545-6676
Website: storminnormanhorton.com
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