Alabama Republican Assembly Issues Strong Opposition to SB 360, Citing Risks to Utility Stability and Statewide Representation

NORTHPORT, Ala. - March 11, 2026 - The Alabama Republican Assembly (ARA) has formally announced its opposition to Senate Bill 360, issuing a sharply worded resolution that warns the proposal would destabilize utility regulation, undermine equal statewide representation, and introduce unnecessary political division into the oversight of essential services.

The resolution, adopted by the ARA Board of Directors during its March 11 conference, rejects SB 360-titled the "Power to the People Act"-as a sweeping and hazardous restructuring of the Alabama Public Service Commission (PSC). The bill was introduced just one day earlier on March 10.

A "Radical Overhaul," Assembly Says

In its resolution, the ARA describes SB 360 as the most dramatic restructuring of the PSC in more than a century. The bill would expand the commission from three statewide‑elected members to seven commissioners elected by congressional district, create a new cabinet‑level Secretary of Energy, and impose a multi‑year freeze on electric retail base rate adjustments.

The Assembly argues that these changes would dismantle a long‑standing statewide election system that ensures every Alabamian-regardless of region-has an equal voice in selecting the officials who regulate electricity, natural gas, and water.

According to the resolution, shifting PSC elections to congressional districts "invites regional favoritism" and risks injecting political conflict into what has historically been a statewide regulatory body.

Concerns Over Confusion, Instability, and Politicization

The ARA warns that linking PSC elections to congressional districts could create legal complications and voter confusion, while also politicizing utility regulation at a time when Alabama faces significant energy and infrastructure demands.

The group also criticizes the bill's phase‑in process, which would allow the governor to appoint four commissioners in 2026 before staggered elections begin through 2030. The Assembly argues this would lead to years of instability and potential conflicts of interest, weakening the PSC's ability to provide consistent oversight.

Rate Freeze Called "Heavy‑Handed Interference"

SB 360's proposed moratorium on base rate adjustments through June 1, 2029, is another major point of contention. While the freeze may appear consumer‑friendly, the ARA contends it could deter necessary investments, trigger litigation, and shift financial burdens unfairly among ratepayers.

The resolution states that such restrictions amount to "heavy‑handed government interference" that could ultimately harm the very consumers the bill claims to protect.

Call for Transparency in Political Contributions

The Assembly also emphasizes the importance of transparency regarding financial contributions connected to SB 360. The resolution asserts that voters deserve to know the sources, amounts, and timing of political donations supporting candidates or elected officials involved with the bill.

ARA: Bill "Risks Higher Costs and Reduced Reliability"

The ARA frames SB 360 as a measure that would weaken statewide accountability, increase long‑term costs, and jeopardize service reliability. The organization argues that the bill's reforms are not genuine empowerment but rather an attempt to shift control of the PSC under the guise of modernization.

Formal Resolutions and Next Steps

The Assembly's resolution includes three formal declarations:

- SB 360 should be rejected outright for threatening Alabama's energy stability and statewide representation.

- No amendments will make the bill acceptable unless they fully preserve the current three‑commissioner, statewide‑elected structure and eliminate district‑based elections and rate‑control mandates.

- Certified copies of the resolution should be sent to the bill's sponsor, co‑sponsors, key Senate committee members, legislative leadership, and the governor.

The resolution was adopted on March 11, 2026, and signed by ARA leaders including John Rice, Murray Edwards, and President Jennifer Montrose.

The organization has invited media coverage and directed the public to its website for additional context.