MD HB1147

Establishes the Public Service Commission's exercise of authority as an essential government function and exempts it from State and local taxation and most State procurement laws

Requires the Commission to create an independent personnel management system separate from the State Personnel Management System, with merit-based hiring procedures and grievance processes

Expands the Commission's authority to employ or retain consultants and experts as independent contractors, including financial experts, climate experts, modeling experts, and administrative staff

Mandates annual submission of operating budgets to the Department of Budget and Management, maintenance of accounting records using GAAP standards, and independent CPA audits at the end of each fiscal year

Ensures Commission employees remain eligible for State benefits, accrued leave credits, and transfer rights to other State government positions, with compensation determined by the Commission