The Senate Rules Committee meets today to consider approving California Public Utilities Commission President Michael Peevey for another term on the panel.
But it's whose bid the committee won't hear today that's set off a bit of a controversy.
Aides for Senate President pro tem Darrell Steinberg said last week that the committee would not hold a hearing for PUC Commissioner Rachelle Chong. Without the green light from lawmakers, the Schwarzenegger appointee's time on the panel will come to an end later this month.
Chong, who was first confirmed to the post in 2007, has been criticized by consumer groups who say she votes at the bidding of the telecommunications industry.
Chong's supporters cried foul, saying the Senate should at least give her the consideration of a hearing. They also pointed to her voting record, which is identical to Peevey's.
Those complaints have continued, with groups representing the business and Asian-American communities sending letters in support of Chong.
This morning, representatives from several of those organizations are meeting with Steinberg's office to make their case. UPDATE 7:40 : The meeting with Steinberg's office was cancelled by the advocates, Steinberg's office said.
"They're really withholding fair due process of a very highly qualified person," said Filipino Progress board member Norm De Young, who was scheduled to attend the meeting. "Our expectation is that if we present a fair, unbiased representation of the [appointee], that [Steinberg] will do his best to be fair and earnest on her behalf. Our expectation is one of fairness."
GOV2010: Did having all the latest news and information about the gubernatorial race just one convenient click away top your wish list to Santa? Looks like Christmas has arrived early this year! The Bee's new Gov2010 page is up and running. Click here for The Bee's one-stop cyber portal for stories, video, candidate bios and more.
HEARINGS: An Assembly Budget subcommittee on transportation holds a 1 p.m. informational hearing on Caltrans oversight. Lawmakers will look at the recent Bay Bridge closure, fleet management and federal funding for the agency.
RAGGING ON REGS: Republican Assemblyman Roger Niello and Sen. Dave Cox, both of Fair Oaks, are on their second day of events to highlight the impact regulations have on local employers. They'll hear from struggling employers at 8 a.m. at the Citrus Heights City Council Chambers.
BIRTHDAYS: Sen. Curren Price, D-Inglewood, turns 59 today.
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