On Wednesday, the Office of the Texas Governor announced the reappointment of Benjamin Barkley as Chief Executive and Public Counsel for the Office of Public Utility Counsel. His term will end on February 1, 2027. Barkley is responsible for representing Texans in matters involving electric, telecommunications, and water utilities. The appointment is pending confirmation by the Texas Senate, according to the Office of the Texas Governor.
Barkley has a background in public service, law, and policy-making. He previously worked as an assistant general counsel for the Office of the Governor, a policy advisor, and an assistant district attorney in Fort Bend County. He graduated from the University of Texas at San Antonio and earned his juris doctor degree from Boston College Law School. His experience includes knowledge of Texas's legislative and judicial systems, which will inform his role at Office of Public Utility Counsel, as reported by the Office of the Texas Governor.
Barkley will continue serving as Public Counsel for the Office of Public Utility Counsel, representing residential and small commercial consumers in utility-related matters. His role involves advocating for consumer interests in litigation and regulatory negotiations, with a focus on utility rates, service quality, and new technologies, as stated by the Office of the Texas Governor.
