Baker PUC Nomination Hits Senate Floor Tomorrow

Environmentalist Matt Baker's nomination to serve as a member of the Public Utilities Commission will be considered by the Senate Thursday.

Baker's nomination was endorsed by a Senate committee earlier in the week, despite Republican charges that he is opposed to the use of coal to meet the state's electricity needs.

Republican Senate leader Andy McElhany of Colorado Springs has also charged that Baker lacks the technical expertise to be an effective member of the PUC. Baker has a history degree.

Given the margin of the Democratic majority in the Senate, and a vote for Baker in committee by Sen. Ken Kester, R-Las Animas, it is likely that Baker will be confirmed.