US EditionRuling: Future of Public Service Commission president in Gianforte's hands
Judge Menahan ruled that Governor Gianforte can review a complaint against PSC President Molnar, who faces allegations of workplace misconduct and retaliation during an ongoing investigation.
- Lewis and Clark County Judge Mike Menahan on Friday restored Gov. Greg Gianforte's ability to review a complaint against Public Service Commission President Brad Molnar, clearing the way to consider suspension.
- Public Service Commission Vice President Jennifer Fielder asked Gianforte to suspend Brad Molnar so the internal HR investigation can continue, alleging harassment and retaliation.
- Menahan wrote that the state statute governing PSC complaints places no restriction on who can file, emphasizing a low bar for investigating complaints.
- Menahan's ruling allows Gov. Greg Gianforte to investigate and potentially suspend Brad Molnar, who warns suspension would shift control over NorthWestern Energy's $874 million rate request and $3.6 billion merger.
- The Public Service Commission, amid recent scrutiny and staff turnover, will consider Molnar's Oct. 14 motion and Fielder's Oct. 21 motion lowering suspension thresholds.
15 Articles
15 Articles
ABC FOX Montana
Judge denies Molnar’s motion to stop suspension by governor
A Lewis and Clark County District Court judge found Gov. Greg Gianforte has the authority and responsibility to investigate a complaint filed against Montana Public Service Commission President Brad Molnar — and Molnar has a “duty to cooperate in the…
Ruling: Future of Montana Public Service Commission president in Gianforte's hands
The court case stems from a months-long HR investigation into PSC President Brad Molnar, and a subsequent letter from the PSC's vice president requesting the Gianforte's involvement.
The Billings Gazette
Ruling: Future of Public Service Commission president in Gianforte's hands
The court case stems from a months-long HR investigation into PSC President Brad Molnar, and a subsequent letter from the PSC's vice president requesting the Gianforte's involvement.
Judge rules Gianforte can consider complaint against PSC president Molnar
A state district judge in Helena has ruled against Montana Public Service Commissioner Brad Molnar, allowing Gov. Greg Gianforte to consider temporarily suspending Molnar from his position.District Judge Mike Menahan wrote in an opinion Friday that Gianforte had the authority to act on a complaint filed against Molnar, submitted by Commissioner Jennifer Fielder.Molnar is president of the Public Service Commission, the body that regulates utiliti…
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