Former State Senator James Alesi has been nominated as a member of the New York State Public Service Commission, the powerful body that regulates public utilities statewide and also sets communications and energy policy.
Alesi retired from the senate after his last term ended in 2012. He spent 20 years as a state lawmaker following service as a Monroe County Legislator.
As first reported by the New York Daily News, the Cuomo Administration has named Alesi to a seat on the board and the senate must vote to confirm him prior to the end of session on Wednesday. The nomination was made late Monday Afternoon. The new job pays more than $109,000 a year.
Some Conservative Party organizations have come out in opposition to Alesi’s appointment. One statement calls him “unqualified.” Alesi drew Conservative Party condemnation six years ago when he became one of four key Republican votes for legalizing gay marriage in New York State.