The Montana Public Service Commission regulates rates and service qualities of electric, natural gas, water, and telecommunications utilities for the entire state. Daniel Carlino, 22 of Missoula, is running to “restore the people’s voice to the PSC.”

Website: www.carlino2020.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CarlinoforMT/

Next year, three of the five seats for the Public Service Commission will be up for grabs and 22 year-old Missoula resident and climate activist, Daniel Carlino, is hoping to pick up District 4 seat which covers seven counties including Missoula.

Carlino touts his climate activism, an internship with the Sierra Club, and research work with Environment Montana as qualifiers for his run for the PSC.

“The Montana Public Service Commission will decide the role that we play in averting climate catastrophe through our state’s energy policies. I am running for the PSC to fight for a livable future and ensure justice in Montana,” said Carlino. Carlino also coordinates the local hub of the national climate justice group, Sunrise Movement.

As an environmental studies student at the University of Montana, Carlino believes his studies on how the Earth’s natural systems work and humans influence on them can also help inform decision at the PSC. Carlino wrote and lobbied for the 100% clean electricity resolution that passed the UM student government.

“In 2019, Northwestern Energy proposed a rate change for rooftop solar in Montana that would make at home energy production no longer profitable, tightening Northwestern Energy’s grip on the energy monopoly,” said Carlino. “In 2018, Northwestern Energy paid $187 million for their Montana energy while charging Montana ratepayers $407 million for the same energy. This gross injustice must be halted and reigned in.”

There are currently five Republicans that make up the board of the PSC. The current District 4 Commissioner, Bob Lake, terms out in 2020.

“This campaign is for the underrepresented voices, those struggling to pay their bills, and the people who are currently being affected by the climate crisis. I am driven by my love for our beautiful state and the passion to deliver for all people. As your Public Service Commissioner, I will fight hard for Montana utility ratepayers every day,” said Carlino.

Daniel Carlino pledged to be a strong advocate for compost and recycling pick up programs state-wide. Carlino claims the current Public Service Commission has not been responsive or open to the public’s comments and concerns. Carlino wants to put the public’s voice back into the PSC decisions by holding weekly office hours during his campaign for commissioner and by listening and responding to everyone’s concerns. People interested in finding out more Carlino’s candidacy for Public Service Commission can visit his website at Carlino2020.com.

Daniel Carlino is a candidate for Montana Public Service Commission, District 4.