Governor Nominates Timothy Schneider to Serve as Public Advocate

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

For Immediate Release: Monday, April 1

Contact: Adrienne Bennett, Press Secretary (207) 287-2531

AUGUSTA – Governor Paul R. LePage today nominated Timothy Schneider of Portland to serve as the Public Advocate representing the interests of Maine ratepayers in proceedings before the Maine Public Utilities Commission, including issues regarding electricity and natural gas prices. The Office of the Public Advocate also supports Mainers on matters related to telecommunications, including accessibility to broadband internet.

One of Schneider’s first involvements with utility issues was while working for the Maine Sea Coast Mission in Cherryfield, Maine. He personally experienced the lack of broadband infrastructure in rural areas, which affected Maine students, their educational opportunities and economic opportunities in their communities. The experience led to his interest in telecommunications and regulatory policy.

Since 2008, Schneider has specialized in electricity and natural gas as an attorney at Pierce Atwood LLP. He has worked with the Maine Public Utilities Commission and has been involved in some of the most complex issues before the Commission in recent years, including the inquiry into Maine’s continued participation in ISO-NE, consideration of the largest transmission upgrade in Maine history, as well as the Commission’s investigation into its electric utilities’ transmission planning standards and many issues relating to natural gas pricing and infrastructure.

Schneider earned a B.A. in Social Studies from Harvard University and was awarded the Stride Rite Senior Recognition Award for his contribution to public service. He earned his Juris Doctor from New York University School of Law.

“We must find ways to make Maine more competitive, and part of that includes expanding access to broadband and lowering electricity prices. Today, Mainers are burdened with some of the highest energy prices in the nation, and the cost of doing business in Maine is a huge jobs killer,” said Governor LePage. “We must have a strong advocate who is working toward opportunities that will enable Maine to compete in the global market.”

Richard Davies has served as the Public Advocate since 2007. His term expired Feb. 1, 2013.

CONNECT WITH GOVERNOR LEPAGE:

###