Attorney General Dave Sunday has appointed Darryl A. Lawrence as Pennsylvania's Interim Consumer Advocate. Lawrence, who has worked in the Pennsylvania Office of Consumer Advocate since June 2005, most recently held the position of Senior Assistant Consumer Advocate before his recent appointment.
Lawrence will represent consumers across the Commonwealth in matters related to public utility service quality and pricing while the search for a permanent Consumer Advocate is underway. The role involves oversight of utilities such as electric, natural gas, water, wastewater, and telecom companies under the jurisdiction of either the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission or the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.
Attorney General Sunday expressed confidence in Lawrence's capabilities: “I am confident that Darryl has the experience, expertise, and commitment to public service required to represent the best interests of Pennsylvanians who demand and deserve fair pricing and high-quality when it comes to essential utilities.” He added that he is "continuing the open process of engaging with qualified candidates for the permanent position as Pennsylvania’s Consumer Advocate.”
Lawrence commented on his new role: “It has been an honor to serve the consumers of Pennsylvania for the past 20 years in matters involving public utilities. I look forward to continuing the important work of the Office of Consumer Advocate in this new role.”
The Pennsylvania Office of Consumer Advocate was established by legislation in 1976 and operates independently within the Office of Attorney General. It serves as a legal representative for all utility ratepayers and has authority to participate in litigation before state and federal courts as well as regulatory commissions.
The appointment process for a permanent Consumer Advocate includes confirmation by the Pennsylvania State Senate once a candidate is selected.