NARUC Names new Chair of Committee on Telecommunications

The National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners has named a new Chairman of the Committee on Telecommunications. John Burke from the Vermont Public Service Board will replace Ray Baum of Oregon. Baum has taken up a position on the House Energy and Commerce Committee Subcommittee on Communications and Technology as a Senior Policy Advisor.

Burke joined the Vermont Public Service Board in 2001. He also serves on Federal-State Joint Boards on Separations and Universal Service.

“The Telecommunications Committee is a critical forum for State regulators to analyze and comprehend the always changing communications sector,” Commissioner Burke said. “From universal service reform, consumer protection, and now smart-grid issues, our members must be involved to make sure that new developments and technologies work for the benefit of consumers. I look forward to working with my colleagues, particularly Commissioner [Maureen] Harris, whom I’m grateful is remaining as Vice Chair of the committee.”

“Few industries have undergone the tremendous and sweeping reforms that the Telecommunications industry has experienced,” President Clark said. “Commissioner Burke will bring an innovative and balanced perspective to these issues, and I am grateful for his service. I also want to thank Chairman Baum for his dedication to this committee. NARUC and our nation’s consumers are better off because of his leadership.”

NARUC has been an important ally of the Federal Communications Commission in their support of the Open Internet.