Attorney General-Elect Sunday Announces Process for Consideration of a New Consumer Advocate

January 15, 2024 (Harrisburg)- Attorney General-Elect Dave Sunday released the following statement following the resignation of the Pennsylvania Consumer Advocate Patrick Cicero:

“Over the course of the last several weeks, I have had the great privilege of meeting with department heads throughout the Office of Attorney General to learn about their department and explain my process for transitioning into the office. I have been grateful for the open flow of information from the dedicated public servants in the Attorney General’s office. During these meetings, I explain how I plan to move forward once I’m sworn in to office, which includes the consideration of any interested employee in the interview process for positions under the discretion of the Attorney General.

Last week, I had the opportunity to meet with the current Consumer Advocate, Patrick Cicero, and explained this process. Mr. Cicero sent a letter indicating his intention to not participate in that process and announced his resignation effective January 31st. I wish him well in his future endeavors.

With this development, I welcome applicants for the position to reach out via www.SundayTransition.com as soon as possible. Our Transition Committee is hard at work as I prepare to take the oath of office on January 21st.  We would like to welcome additional consumer advocacy organizations to bring their voices to the transition committee. Interested organizations should submit their willingness to serve to info@SundayTransition.com. We would also welcome letters and information from anyone who has dealt with the Office of Consumer Advocate about what I should be looking for in the next head of the office and how things can be improved upon in the future.

Having a capable, unbiased and apolitical Consumer Advocate is a priority for my administration in order to protect the interests of all consumers. Its work is vital to all Pennsylvanians, especially the most vulnerable among us. I look forward to an open and transparent process that includes feedback from all interested parties and individuals.

Background:

The Office of Consumer Advocate is a state agency that represents the interests of Pennsylvania utility customers in the courts and regulatory agencies. This is an at will appointment by the Attorney General and is the only appointment by the Attorney General that requires Senate confirmation.  It operates as an independent office within the office of Attorney General.

The law governing the appointment of the Consumer Advocate states:

(b)  Consumer Advocate.--The Attorney General shall appoint a Consumer Advocate which appointment shall be subject to the approval of a majority of the members elected to the Senate. The Consumer Advocate shall perform the duties and have the powers set forth in Article IX-A of "The Administrative Code of 1929."            

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