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July 1, 2008
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Sen. Pileggi: Powelson Confirmed to Serve on Pennsylvania's Public Utility Commission

Robert F. Powelson, a resident of Kennett Township in Chester County, was unanimously confirmed by the state Senate yesterday to serve on Pennsylvania's Public Utility Commission, Senate Majority Leader Dominic Pileggi (R-9) announced.

"The PUC deals with some of the most important issues facing Pennsylvania today, including electric rate mitigation and increasing our use of alternative energy," said Senator Pileggi. "Rob's ability to find solutions to often complex problems will serve him well in this role."

Powelson, a resident of the 9th Senatorial District, served as president and CEO of the Chester County Chamber of Business and Industry from 1995 until accepting this position.

"I would like to thank Majority Leader Pileggi for his steadfast support of my nomination," Powelson said. "My objective as a PUC Commissioner is to be fair and balanced. I recognize that consumer protection is a very important aspect of my role as a Commissioner, and I will support measures to educate consumers on the conditions of the current marketplace."

Senator Pileggi spoke in favor of Powelson's nomination on the Senate floor. Powelson, who is filling a position left vacant after the resignation of a previous commissioner, was confirmed by a vote of 50 to 0. His term on the PUC expires on April 1, 2009.

Wayne Gardner of Downingtown also was confirmed by the Senate yesterday to serve on the PUC. Powelson and Gardner were both sworn into office today.

The PUC, created in 1937, oversees issues related to electric service, natural gas, water and wastewater, telecommunications, and some transportation issues such as those involving taxis and charter buses.