WASHINGTON-California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger officially named former federal telecom regulator Rachelle Chong to the California Public Utilities Commission.
“Rachelle’s more than two decades of experience in telecommunications law in conjunction with her exceptional understanding of the regulatory environment will be a tremendous asset to the Public Utilities Commission,” said Schwarzenegger. “She brings a unique perspective to this important regulatory body and will work to protect consumers while keeping California’s economy growing and ensuring our state continues to lead the world in technology development and innovation.”
Chong, a Republican, succeeds Democrat Susan Kennedy, who left her CPUC post Jan. 1 to become Schwarzenegger’s chief of staff.
RCRNews.com reported Chong appointment prior the governor’s announcement.
Chong was a Republican Federal Communications Commission member from 1994 to 1997, a period when the agency was implementing the 1996 telecom act and auctioning wireless licenses for the first time.
Chong will enter the CPUC fray over revamping the 2004 bill of rights for telecom consumers.
“I am honored Gov. Schwarzenegger has asked me to bring the knowledge and understanding of telecommunications policy I gained as a member of the Federal Communications Commission back to serve in my home state of California,” said Chong. “I look forward to working with my fellow commissioners to continue to build upon their record of moving technology forward to bring down prices and create more jobs in California’s high-tech industries.”
Chong’s appointment is subject to state Senate confirmation. RCR
