Sebelius names Tom Wright to Kansas Corporation Commission
KCC to play important role in guiding Kansas’ energy future

As Kansas seeks to take advantage of opportunities in renewable energy, the Kansas Corporation Commission will play an important role. 

To serve on the commission, Governor Kathleen Sebelius has nominated Thomas Wright, pending Senate confirmation.  He would replace Brian Moline who is retiring.

“One of the KCC’s primary missions is to ensure reliable energy for Kansas consumers. We’re now in an era where that means expanding our state’s energy sources to include renewable fuels, and the KCC will be a key part of that effort,” said Sebelius.

“In addition to his legal experience, Tom is committed to the goal of making Kansas a leader in energy security and independence, taking advantage of our vast opportunities with alternative energy sources and encouraging widespread conservation efforts throughout the state.  Tom has served on several public boards and commissions, and has the leadership abilities needed to move this state in an exciting new direction.”

The KCC regulates the energy, transportation and telecommunications industries within Kansas, including public utilities, common carriers, motor carriers and oil and gas producers. It does not regulate most electric cooperatives, water cooperatives, municipalities, wireless telephones, long distance phone services, cable companies or the Internet.

The three-member commission is appointed by the Governor with the approval of the Senate.  Commissioners serve staggered four-year terms and elect one of their colleagues as chairperson. The chairperson acts as agency head with input from the other members.

Wright, Topeka, grew up in Harper, Kansas, before going on to graduate from the University of Wichita (now Wichita State University) with a degree in mathematics in 1961.  He graduated from Washburn University School of Law in 1964, and also earned a bachelor’s degree in German from Washburn in 1979.

Wright is currently a partner at Wright, Henson, Clark, Hutton, Mudrick & Gragson, LLP.  He served on the Washburn University Board of Regents, including as its chair.  He also served on the Kansas Supreme Court Nominating Commission, the Governor’s Gaming Commission and as chair of the Topeka-Shawnee County Consolidation Commission.

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