The Senate Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee has scheduled a hearing on Gov. Rendell three nominees to the Public Utility Commission this week. Here’s a rundown on each of the candidates-

James W. Cawley: from Mechanicsburg, is a partner in the law firm of Rhoads and Sinon LLP in Harrisburg. He served as a PUC Commissioner from 1979 through 1985. Cawley has written extensive publications including co-authoring the Rate Case Handbook, "A Guide to Utility Ratemaking before the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission" in 1983. Cawley holds a law degree from Notre Dame and a bachelor's degree in English from St. Bonaventure University. Cawley would replace Robert Bloom for a full, five-year term until April 1, 2010.

Terrence J. Fitzpatrick: of Hummelstown, currently serves at the Deputy General Counsel of the Majority Caucus in the Senate of Pennsylvania. He also served as PUC Chairman from 2003 to 2004. Fitzpatrick practiced public utility and environmental law. He holds a law degree from the University of Dayton and a bachelor's degree from East Stroudsburg University. Fitzpatrick would serve until April 1, 2008.

Bill Shane: from Indiana County, served as PUC Chairman from May 1987 through June 1990 where he started the PUC Telecommunications Infrastructure Study that resulted in Act 67. As Chairman, Shane also created the Telecommunications Relay Service for the deaf. During that time, Shane was also the driving force behind the Low Income Usage Reduction Program. Shane holds a law degree from the University of Pennsylvania and a degree in Economics from Harvard College. Shane would fulfill the unexpired term of Glen Thomas until April 1, 2006.

6/3/2005