Gov. Napolitano Appoints New Corporation Commission Commissioner

Gov. Janet Napolitano today announced she's chosen former legislator Barry Wong to fill an empty seat on the Arizona Corporation Commission. The position was vacated this week by Republican Marc Spitzer, who resigned to take a job with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC).

Wong will serve the remainder of Spitzer's term, which expires in January, 2007. A full-term replacement will be on the November ballot, & take office in the new year.

The Commission will have to tackle critical issues in the next several months, including a vote on mandating the use of more renewable energy to reduce the state's reliance on fossil fuels. While in the legislature, Wong worked on measures on issues affecting solar & renewable energy sources.

"While reviewing possible candidates for the Corporation Commission, Barry emerged as an obvious choice," said Napolitano. "I have no doubt that he has the integrity and knowledge to be an advocate for Arizonans in cases before the Commission for the next several months."

Wong, a Republican, represented North-Central Phoenix as a state lawmaker from 1993 - 2000. A graduate of the University of Arizona College of Law, Wong is now a lawyer & business consultant at his own firm. He was previously a vice president for CIGNA, specializing in government relations for the company's 10 western states. He's also involved in community organizations, serving as a member of the Arizona Asian American Association, The Fiesta Bowl Committee, & an Honorary Commander Alumni for Luke Air Force Base's 56th Fighter Wing.

Wong is eligible to take the position immediately.