Press Release

PUC Appoints Rainey as Next Chief Administrative Law Judge

Published on 9/16/2010

Filed under: Electric Gas Water and Wastewater Telecommunications Transportation and Safety

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission today announced the appointment of Charles E. Rainey, Jr. of Philadelphia, as the next chief administrative law judge (ALJ).

“As an administrative law judge, Charles Rainey was an exemplary employee with a tremendous work ethic,” Chairman James H. Cawley said.  “I am sure he will continue these traits as he takes on his new position.  He will be an excellent addition to our roster of skilled bureau directors.”

Rainey has served as an ALJ with the Commission since 1996.  Prior to that, he was an executive deputy chief counsel member of the Commission’s Law Bureau.

Rainey received his bachelor of arts degree from the College of the Holy Cross, Worcester, MA, and his juris doctor from Antioch University School of Law, Washington, D.C.

The Office of Administrative Law Judge (OALJ) provides conflict resolution by independent administrative law judges. Judges preside at formal hearings in contested matters before the PUC, gather all the facts relating to an individual case, prepare written decisions outlining the issues and recommend resolutions to the disputes.

The OALJ includes a mediation unit and a mediation coordinator. It is the PUC’s policy to encourage mediation and settlement rather than to see the parties engage in what may become lengthy and expensive litigation during the formal hearing process. Mediation is a voluntary, confidential and non-binding process through which a neutral third party, the mediator, assists the parties in reaching a mutually acceptable settlement of their disputes.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities to ensure safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protect the public interest; educate consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; further economic development; and foster new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

For recent news releases, audio of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our website at www.puc.state.pa.us.

###

Contact:

• Press Secretary
  717-787-5722