Governor Greg Abbott has named Courtney Hjaltman as the new appointee to the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC), tasked with overseeing the state's utility industries, her term is slated to stretch until September 1, 2025, according to a press release from the governor's office. The PUC's responsibilities include implementing legislation, regulatory oversight of Texas utilities, and addressing consumer complaints.
"Courtney Hjaltman's longtime service to the State of Texas and extensive legal expertise makes her the ideal choice to serve on the Public Utility Commission," declared Governor Abbott in the statement, emphasizing her commitment to quality utility services for Texans. "I look forward to continuing to work with Courtney to improve utility services and build a bigger, better Texas for all."
Hjaltman brings with her a solid background in public service and legal affairs, hailing from Austin, she is currently serving as Chief Executive and Public Counsel for the Office of Public Utility Counsel (OPUC), a position she has held since December last year her qualifications include over 17 years of experience in state service, encompassing her time as Deputy Legislative Director for the Office of the Governor, chief of staff in the Texas House of Representatives, and a legislative staffer in the Texas Senate.
Her educational credentials are equally robust, Hjaltman holds Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts degrees from The University of Texas (UT) Austin, and her legal expertise is backed by a Juris Doctor from South Texas College of Law, along with these accomplishments she’s active in community and professional groups, including the State Bar of Texas, Junior League of Austin, and the Pink Granite Foundation, and is also known for her mentoring efforts at her local church in Austin.
