A new proposal in the Legislature would free former Arizona House Speaker Andy Tobin from a conflict of interest that emerged when he took an appointment as a state utility regulator.
Republican Rep. John Allen said Tuesday an amendment he's introduced to House Bill 2123 clarifies that Tobin can vote on issues involving a rooftop solar company that employs his son-in-law. Corporation Commission attorneys advised Tobin before he was sworn in on Feb. 2 that his son-in-law's job triggers a provision of the conflict law.
Tobin said he wouldn't vote on matters involving the company, possibly including an Arizona Public Service rate case because the solar company may be involved.
Allen says that opinion is overly broad and he wants Corporation Commissioners to fall under rules affecting all elected officials.
