Senate panel confirms two new PSC commissioners

Despite the concern of several lawmakers, the Senate Communications, Energy and Public Utilities Committe confirmed Wednesdaytwo new members of the FloridaPublic Service Commission, the quasi-judicial body that regulates stateutilities.

The commission voted in Ben Stevens and David Klement, Gov. Charlie Crists nominees, with a vote of 8-1. Klement is a former editor of the Bradenton Herald and director of the Public Policy and Leadership Institute at the University of South Floridas Sarasota campus. Stevens is past president of the Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants.

Crist has said he nominated the two to withstand the influences of special interests on the PSC.

Sen. Chris Smith, D-Oakland Park, was the lone vote against the two new commissioners. He and Sen. Arthenia Joyner, D-Miami Gardens, believe the PSC lacks racial diversity, and other lawmakers agreed with them.

Sen. Mike Haridopolos, R-Merritt Island, took a brief monemt to think his decision over when his name was called. He ultimately decided to confirm the two appointees, but he had concerns about whether they were the most qualified candidates.

To see him explain his concerns, return here for a Florida Minute with Haridopolos.