INDIANAPOLIS, (WLKI) Governor Mike Braun has announced the appointment of Joshua Bain to the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC), the state agency responsible for regulating utilities and ensuring Hoosiers receive safe, reliable service at fair and reasonable rates.
Bain's appointment takes effect immediately.
In announcing the selection, Governor Braun emphasized that keeping utility costs affordable remains one of his top priorities.
"I have been clear, affordability is my top priority for Hoosiers," Braun said. "As families and businesses continue to feel the pressure of rising costs, it's essential that we have leaders who will be ratepayer conscious. Joshua Bain brings experience in energy policy, environmental stewardship, and collaboration across government and local communities. I am confident he will serve with integrity and keep affordability and the public interest at the forefront of every decision."
The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission serves as the state's independent administrative agency responsible for overseeing electric, natural gas, water, wastewater, and telecommunications utilities. The commission reviews rate requests and other regulatory matters with the goal of balancing the interests of consumers and utility providers.
Bain currently serves as Executive Director of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs for the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM). In that role, he has worked on legislative priorities and coordinated with state and local government leaders on environmental policy.
Before joining IDEM, Bain served as Midwest Director for the Center for Energy Education, where he partnered with local governments, chambers of commerce, and community organizations on issues involving energy generation projects and economic development.
A graduate of Indiana University Indianapolis, Bain earned a bachelor's degree in public affairs. He currently resides in Camby.
State officials say Bain's background in energy policy, environmental issues, and government relations will help guide the commission as it addresses utility regulation and affordability for Indiana residents and businesses.