The first act of regulating a public utility dates back to 1843, when the Oregon Territory's provisional government took initial action. In 1876, at the recommendation of Governor L.G. Grover, utility regulation by a commission began. The Railroad Commission was created in 1907 as a three-member board, and its authority expanded to utilities and transportation with the “Public Utility Act of 1911.”
Over time, both the number of commissioners and the scope of regulation evolved. In 1986, Oregon voters approved a ballot measure establishing a three-member, Governor-appointed commission and renaming the agency the Public Utility Commission of Oregon. In the mid-1990s, regulation of motor transportation and rail safety shifted to the Oregon Department of Transportation.
Today, the Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) regulates investor-owned electric, natural gas, and landline telephone utilities, along with select water companies. The agency continues to balance customer needs and utilities operations as the industry adapts to new technologies and resources.
Timeline of Our Past
July 5, 1843
First act regulating a public utility, which included the regulation of mills and millers.
Oct. 19, 1876
First instance of the regulation of a utility by a commission at the recommendation of Governor L.F. Grover and enacted by the Legislature.
Feb. 19, 1907
The Railroad Commission was created with an elected three member board.
Nov. 29, 1912
The Railroad Commission's jurisdiction was extended to include utilities and transportation regulation with the Public Utility Act of 1911. This act was the first place in Oregon history to mention the regulation of telephone service.
July 1, 1915 - Feb. 28, 1931
During this time, the Railroad Commission was named the Public Service Commission of Oregon.
March 1, 1931
The Commission dropped from three members to one and the name was changed to the Public Utilities Commissioner, which was appointed by the governor.
1986
Oregon voters approved a ballot measure changing the office back to a three-person Governor-appointed commission and changed the name to the Public Utility Commission of Oregon.
1995
Congress deregulated much of the transportation industry. The regulation of motor transportation and rail safety was then transferred to the Oregon Department of Transportation.
1999
House Bill 3615 gave the governor the authority to appoint the Commission Chair.