Connecticut Attorney General's Office

Press Release

Attorney General's Statement On FERC Chairman Resignation

January 13, 2009

"This resignation starts dismantling a fatally flawed FERC -- leadership that is deservedly doomed as we welcome a new and promising administration.

"Under Chairman Kelliher, FERC has been on a lawless and mindless mission to nearly obliterate state rights, and approve virtually all energy projects at any cost to the environment and ordinary citizens.

"This resignation marks a moment that enables President-elect Obama's administration to restore FERC's true mission: protecting consumers from exploitation by energy companies that provide a basic necessity of modern life. FERC must finally defend consumers from unwise and unjust energy policies that favor industry interests over public interests.

"FERC, under new leadership, must act immediately to reform its rules to reduce electric and gas rates for our nation's businesses and citizens. Proactive regulation of the wholesale energy markets -- absent for so many years -- is now possible and necessary.