US ELECTIONS: New Mexico voters favor overhaul of utility board oversight

New Mexico voters appeared on track to revamping oversight of the Public Regulation Commission, handing governors greater control over the body that regulates utilities.The constitutional amendment would end election of commissioners and cut their number from five to three.

It received 54% of votes with 77% of precincts reporting, according to The Associated Press.

The commission has become increasingly contentious since the state adopted a 100% renewable energy mandate by 2050.

Under the ballot measure that would take effect Jan. 1, 2023, commissioners would be appointed by the governor to six-year terms and require consent from the Senate. It would make future gubernatorial elections more significant for utility oversight.

The change in governance was opposed by the current PRC chairman and those who argue it amounts to a power grab by the governor and legislature.