Consumer Advisory Council (CAC)

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Purpose of the Council

The purpose of the Consumer Advisory Council is to represent the public in advising the Commissioners on matters relating to the protection of consumer interests which are under the jurisdiction of the Commission, or which, in the opinion of the Council, should be brought under the jurisdiction of the Commission. The Council acts as a source of information and advice for the Commissioners. Interactions between the Council and the Commissioners occur through periodic meetings with the Commissioners and in writing via minutes of meetings and formal motions. Council meetings are generally held on the fourth Tuesday of the month in PUC Executive Chambers in Harrisburg starting at 10:00 a.m. and are open to the public. Meetings that conflict with holiday travel or other schedule conflicts are usually held on the second or third Tuesday of the month, depending on the availability of Council members. For more information, contact Lori Shumberger in the PUC's Office of Communications at (717) 787-5722.

Agenda Items

The CAC meeting minutes and agendas can be found here.

The Council considers matters which arise from consumer inquiry or request, Commissioner inquiry or request, or the proceedings, deliberations or motions of the Council itself. The Council solicits matters for review from these sources and establishes an agenda for action. In considering matters within its jurisdiction, the Council, or members of the Council acting under direction of the Council, may conduct investigations and solicit and receive comments from interested parties and the general public. PUC staff are made available to brief the Council on relevant matters and provide necessary support for the Council to complete its agenda. The monthly meeting agenda is available prior to each meeting from the website or the PUC Office of Communications (717) 787-5722.

Qualifications & Appointment of Council Members

The CAC members can be found here.

The following elected officials may appoint a representative to the PUC Consumer Advisory Council: the Governor, the Lieutenant Governor, the Republican and Democratic Chairpersons of the Senate Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee, and the Republican and Democratic Chairpersons of the House Consumer Affairs Committee. The Commission appoints additional "At-Large" representatives, as appropriate, to ensure that the group reflects a reasonable geographic representation of the Commonwealth, including low-income individuals, members of minority groups and various classes of consumers. A person may not serve as a member of the Council if the individual occupies an official relation to a public utility or holds or is a candidate for a paid appointive or elective office of the Commonwealth. Members of the Council serve a two year term, and may be reappointed thereafter without limit. Officers of the Council serve for two year terms. A Chairperson may not act for more than two consecutive terms.