AG files to remove Bitter Smith from Corporation Commission
A months-long siege on Arizona’s energy regulatory agency by a nonprofit funded by renewable energy interests is forcing the state’s top regulator onto the edge of a political precipice.
Brno: Bitter Smith clearly conflicted out of office
Brnovich is asking the Supreme Court to remove Commissioner Bitter Smith from office, arguing she is ineligible to hold it due to her affiliations with entities that are regulated, either directly or indirectly, by the Corp Comm. Brnovich said his office believes the case against Bitter Smith is “straightforward” and the facts aren’t in dispute.
State schools official disciplined over alleged conflict
Politics has led to the discipline of a state Department of Education manager.
Attorney Ryan files conflict-of-interest complaint against Bitter Smith
Attorney Tom Ryan filed an official complaint today with Attorney General Mark Brnovich’s office to remove Corporation Commissioner Susan Bitter Smith from office.
Attorney seeks ouster of Bitter Smith over alleged conflict of interest
A prominent lawyer is seeking the removal of energy regulator Susan Bitter Smith from the Arizona Corporation Commission and is set to formally accuse the commissioner of violating the state’s conflict of interest statutes.
Let’s end barriers to federally regulated cannabis research
In November 2010, the citizens of Arizona passed Proposition 203, thereby establishing a medical marijuana program. Despite many delays, Arizona is now in the process of awarding licenses to nearly 100 new dispensary operators. Yet as patients eagerly anticipate regulated cannabis, they find themselves in the crosshairs of a political battle they should not have to fight.
Bill would allow Bennett to choose prosecutor in Horne case
Despite a judge’s ruling, Secretary of State Ken Bennett may still be able to sidestep Attorney General Tom Horne in the campaign finance case against the AG and a top staffer.
Judge questions MCAO case against Horne; ruling expected on Thursday
A Maricopa County Superior Court judge expressed skepticism over the county attorney’s authority to pursue alleged campaign finance violations by Attorney General Tom Horne, putting the future of the case in question as the state’s top law enforcement officer and a key aide prepare to fight the charges in court.
Bennett sought legislation to deal with AG issues
As the FBI ramped up its investigation into Tom Horne last year, Secretary of State Ken Bennett scrambled to get legislation passed that would allow him to bypass the Attorney General’s Office and seek outside legal counsel.
Safety in numbers: ‘Rule of 10’ gives lawmakers conflict-of-interest leeway
Laws that dictate when a legislator has a conflict of interest leave miles of wiggle room for anyone looking to lend a hand to their business or industry.