Montana Commission Cleared Bushman for Merger Vote
The panel ruled the replacement commissioner may join the decision on the $15.4 billion energy deal.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Utilities
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The Montana Public Service Commission voted unanimously to allow Commissioner Kirk Bushman to participate in the upcoming decision regarding a $15.4 billion merger. Bushman serves as a replacement for suspended Commissioner Brad Molnar.
Why it matters
The decision addresses concerns about continuity in utility oversight after Commissioner Molnar was suspended for one year due to professional misconduct. Critics remain concerned that a commissioner who did not attend May hearings will now help decide the outcome.
The proposed merger involves a $15.4 billion transaction that would shift PSC regulation from 90% of NorthWestern Energy to 30% of the new parent entity. Five commissioners oversee the process, which faces a decision deadline of October 12.
The players
Kirk Bushman
He is a commissioner serving as a replacement for the Montana Public Service Commission until July 2027.
Brad Molnar
He is a Montana Public Service Commissioner currently serving a one-year suspension for professional misconduct.
Monica Tranel
She is a legal representative currently advocating for the Montana Farmers Union and 350 Montana.
NorthWestern Energy
This is a major utility company currently undergoing a review process for a proposed multi-billion dollar merger.
Black Hills Corp
This is a diversified energy company involved in the $15.4 billion merger transaction with NorthWestern Energy.
The details
The commission ruled that an appointed member assumes all duties of a suspended official and may participate in cases that began prior to their term. Monica Tranel, representing the Montana Farmers Union and 350 Montana, is among those monitoring the legal and regulatory process as a district court case proceeds.
Timeline
May 2026: The Public Service Commission held initial hearings on the merger.
July 2026: Commissioner Brad Molnar was suspended for one year for misconduct.
September 2026: The Commission voted to approve Kirk Bushman's participation.
October 12, 2026: The commission faces its primary deadline for the merger decision.
November 10, 2026: The merger decision deadline could be extended to this date.
Market Landscape
The vote highlights the impact of personnel instability on major utility consolidation and regulatory oversight in Montana. This ruling sets a precedent for how the state handles large-scale utility mergers when sitting members are removed mid-proceeding.
Residents and customers should monitor the outcome of this merger as it will determine the regulatory oversight and parent company structure for their utility provider. The change in the parent entity's regulated scope may eventually influence rate structures or service agreements for Montanans.
The takeaway
The commission’s ability to move forward with a full panel is critical for meeting established deadlines in complex regulatory proceedings. Readers should note that legal challenges regarding administrative appointments often continue to play out in district courts alongside official hearings.
What happens next
The Public Service Commission is scheduled to reach a decision on the merger by October 12, 2026, with a possible extension to November 10, 2026.
Further reading
For more background on state energy regulation, visit the Montana Utilities section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KPVI.
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