Marissa Gillett, Governor Ned Lamont’s nominee for a second term as chair of the Public Utility Regulatory Authority (PURA), faces a contentious confirmation battle, with the Executive and Legislative Nominations Committee reportedly split by a single vote.
Gillett’s leadership at PURA has been marked by public clashes with Connecticut’s largest utilities, Eversource and United Illuminating, over rate hikes and regulatory practices. However, her confirmation is now clouded by new political controversy after The Hartford Courant published text messages suggesting she coordinated with her legislative allies on a critical opinion piece targeting the utilities.
Allegations of Improper Collaboration Spark GOP Backlash
Republican leaders in the state legislature, including House Minority Leader Vincent Candelora and Senate Minority Leader Stephen Harding, have demanded a subpoena requiring Gillett to produce correspondence with key lawmakers and Governor Lamont’s staff. The GOP claims Gillett’s communication with Energy and Technology Committee co-chairs, Sen. Norm Needleman and Rep. Jonathan Steinberg, raises concerns about her neutrality.
In a letter to the committee, Candelora and Harding stated, “Such revelations raise serious questions about Ms. Gillett’s neutrality as chair of the PURA and we are concerned about the extent to which she was involved in policymaking and related public relations efforts.”
Debate Over PURA’s Structure Adds Fuel to the Fire
The confirmation battle is further complicated by proposals to restructure PURA from three to five members—a move that could limit Gillett’s authority. Currently, state law requires five commissioners, but only three have served for years. Proponents of expansion argue it would improve transparency and reduce Gillett’s unilateral control over PURA decisions.
Utility companies have supported the expansion, citing concerns that Gillett has sidelined her fellow commissioners. Eversource and United Illuminating recently filed a lawsuit accusing Gillett of making decisions without proper input from her colleagues.
However, Gillett’s backers, including Needleman and Steinberg, oppose expansion, arguing it is a veiled attempt to weaken her authority and stall reforms aimed at lowering rates. Governor Lamont, while previously neutral on the number of commissioners, now emphasizes rate reductions over restructuring.
Sharp Political Divisions and Calls for Compromise
House Speaker Matt Ritter has called for a cooler, more collaborative approach, warning that the debate has grown “too sharp and too loud.” Ritter urged both sides to seek compromise, stating, “The answer is always in the middle. And there is a compromise here.”
Senate Democratic leaders Martin Looney and Bob Duff have remained tight-lipped, stating only that they look forward to Gillett’s testimony at the hearing.
The Stakes: Utility Rates and Regulatory Control
Supporters of Gillett argue that she has fought to hold utilities accountable for excessive profits, protecting consumers from unjust rate hikes. Opponents counter that her policies have contributed to rising bills and harmed the utilities’ financial stability by undermining their credit ratings.
As the confirmation hearing approaches, the outcome remains uncertain. With both sides working to shore up support, Gillett’s future as Connecticut’s top utility regulator may hinge on a single vote.