The FERC intends to create and run the Office of Public Participation to coordinate assistance for the public in relation to authority exercised by the agency. This would include helping those seeking to take part in FERC activities under section 319 of the Federal Power Act (FPA). Congress directed the FERC to provide a report, with a deadline of June 25, 2021, to the Committees on Appropriations of both Houses of Congress regarding the FERC’s progress regarding establishing the Office of Public Participation. Also required in the report is an organizational structure and budget for the office beginning in fiscal year 2022.

The FERC encourages input on the following matters concerning the formation of the Office of Public Participation, including:

• intervenor compensation
• the office’s function and scope as authorized by section 319 of the FPA
• the office’s organizational structure and approach, including the use of equity assessment tools
• participation by tribes, environmental justice communities, and other affected individuals and communities, including those who have not historically participated before the FERC

For further details related to the workshop, contact Stacey Steep, Office of General Counsel, by phone at (202) 502-8148 or via email at OPPWorkshop@ferc.gov. Contact Sarah McKinley, Logistics, by phone at (202) 502-8148 or by email at sarah.mckinley@ferc.gov with logistical concerns.

Additional notices concerning the webcast, including information regarding meeting registration, agenda, panelists and log-in procedures, will be issued prior to the event.

Sources:

Workshop Regarding the Creation of the Office of Public Participation (ferc.gov)

Notice of Workshop and Request for Panelists (ferc.gov)