Texas Governor Greg Abbott has appointed a new leader to head the Office of Public Utility Counsel (OPUC), appointing Benjamin Barkley as the Chief Executive and Public Counsel. Barkley’s term is slated to continue until the first day of February 2025, where he will represent consumers in utility issues that concern electric, telecommunications, and water and wastewater industries, as reported on the state's official website.
In his role Barkley will lead the office in its advocacy for residential and small commercial consumers, ensuring their interests are aired and considered during regulatory proceedings and legal actions when it comes to state and federal utility matters. Barkley’s track record displays a diverse portfolio that covers various government-related roles prior to his latest appointment, he’s not new to the inner workings of the Texas government scene. His resume lists experiences as an assistant general counsel for the Office of the Governor, a policy advisor, and his time in legal service for a state senator and as an assistant district attorney in Fort Bend County.
His academic credentials include a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Honor Studies from The University of Texas at San Antonio and a Juris Doctor from Boston College Law School, this is according to the information provided on the Governor's website. Barkley is also a member of the State Bar of Texas, which adds to his qualifications for the public counsel position.
