Jackson Kelly PLLC issued the following announcement on Aug. 21.
Jackson Kelly PLLC, a regional law firm with a national reputation, is pleased to announce the return of Michael A. Albert as Of Counsel practicing in the Business Law practice group, focusing primarily on public utilities, economic development, and public policy. Mike joins the Firm after having served as Chairman of the Public Service Commission (PSC) of West Virginia for 12 years.
Mike was appointed by Governor Joe Manchin and reappointed by Governor Earl Ray Tomblin then continued as Chairman under Governor Jim Justice. As Chairman, he oversaw the day to day operations of the PSC. Mike also presided over the PSC's response to electricity rate issues addressing economic development and industrial load and business retention, and expansion in the state; the continued oversight of rate base and O&M matters in expedited ratemaking approaches; quality of service issues related to landline phone service; and finalizing the impacts of the 2017 Tax Act’s impact on retail utility rates. Under his direction, the PSC also sought a greater role in Federal proceedings at FERC and the FCC, greater oversight of transmission upgrade projects, and involvement in the electric generation capacity market changes under consideration. In addition, he dealt with transportation safety, which falls under the PSC's regulatory purview.
Mike began his career at Jackson Kelly in 1972 and served as Managing Member of the Firm's Business Law Practice and on the Firm's Executive Committee. Over his career, his practice areas included Administrative Law, Corporate and Securities Law, Banking, Insurance Regulation, Business and Commercial Law, and Public Utilities. After 35 years with the Firm, he retired to accept the appointment to the PSC.
Mike supports local non-profits and charities in Charleston with his time and expertise, focusing on public education and youth empowerment. He volunteered as board member, committee member, and ultimately Chairman of the Boards of Junior Achievement, The Education Alliance, the National Institute for Chemical Studies, and the Kanawha County Public Library. Mike also served on the West Virginia State Bar Board of Governors and the Charleston Regional Chamber of Commerce.
Original source can be found here.
