Commissioner Monica Martinez, a member of the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC), was elected president of the Mid-America Regulatory Conference (MARC) at the group's annual meeting this week in Oklahoma City, effective July 1.  MARC is a regional organization of the utility and transportation regulatory agencies of 15 states.  Its principal activity is informing people of regulatory issues.

"MARC has proven to be a valuable organization as it serves its various states," said Martinez.  "I look forward to leading the organization as it continues to share the best regulatory practices that benefit ratepayers.  This is important as states continue to face challenges for meeting increasing energy needs and responding to climate change concerns."

MPSC Chairman Orjiakor Isiogu stated, "I congratulate Commissioner Martinez on her being named to this influential role.  Her election elevates the stature of the Michigan Public Service Commission as it joins with the other member states in raising important regulatory issues."

Commissioner Steven Transeth added, "MARC is very fortunate to have Commissioner Martinez as its president for the upcoming year.  Her excellent leadership skills and broad knowledge base will continue to benefit MARC as she takes on this highly-respected post."

As MARC president, Martinez will supervise all MARC affairs and serve as the group's principal executive officer.

Martinez has served on MARC's board of directors since 2006.  She was appointed by Governor Jennifer Granholm to the MPSC on July 3, 2005. Her appointed term ends July 2, 2011.

Since joining the MPSC, Martinez has taken an active role in issues relating to consumer education and awareness, energy efficiency promotion, and low-income energy assistance. She has led new Commission efforts promoting lifeline awareness and summer energy conservation. Gov. Granholm recently appointed her to the Climate Action Council.  

As a member of the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners (NARUC) Committee on Consumer Affairs, she has supported efforts for uniform data collection on energy arrearages and calls for additional federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) funding. She is also a member of the NARUC Committee on Telecommunications and its Federal Regulatory Subcommittee, which is currently examining special access. She was elected as MARC's vice president for 2007 and serves on the Federal Interstate Telecommunications Relay Services Advisory Council.

The MPSC is an agency within the Department of Labor & Economic Growth.