NM HB70

Creates the "utility oversight fund" as a nonreverting fund in the state treasury to receive fees collected under the Public Utility Act, with money subject to legislative appropriation to the Public Regulation Commission

Establishes a formal distinction between the Public Regulation Commission (the commissioners) and the "agency" (the supporting organization and employees), clarifying their separate roles and responsibilities

Creates a chief of staff position appointed by the commission to manage day-to-day agency operations, supervise staff, and assign personnel to serve as public interest advocacy staff, advisory staff, and consumer complaint investigators

Requires commissioners and agency employees to comply with the Gift Act, and imposes post-employment restrictions including a two-year ban on former commissioners appearing before the commission for regulated entities and a one-year ban for former employees

Sets late fee penalties at 15% annual interest plus a 2% penalty for unpaid fees, and authorizes the commission to bring suit to collect unpaid fees, interest, and penalties