IURC Chariman Jim Huston announces plans to retire in early 2026
Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission Chairman Jim Huston said he plans to retire by January 2026. (Photo courtesy IURC)
Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) Chairman Jim Huston announced his retirement Friday and said he plans to step down in January 2026 after more than a decade with the agency.
Although Huston's second term officially ended April 1, he has remained in the role temporarily — and will continue to do so until a successor is appointed. He was originally named to the commission by Gov. Mike Pence in 2014 and reappointed as chairman by Gov. Eric Holcomb in 2018.
The IURC Nominating Committee is now seeking Huston's replacement, the commission said in a news release.
'It is with a grateful heart that I announce my intent to retire,' Huston said in a written statement. 'It is a blessing to work alongside our incredibly talented professional staff every day, and I am proud of the work we accomplish on behalf of Hoosier families.'
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The powerful five-member commission oversees more than 600 electric, natural gas, steam, water and wastewater utilities operating in Indiana, according to its website. It regulates rates, financing, bonding, environmental compliance plans and service territories, with final say over changes to the utility bills millions of Hoosiers pay.
During his tenure, Huston worked to streamline agency processes and reinstituted semi-annual 'Reliability Forums,' where utility stakeholders assess seasonal preparedness for energy demand.
In 2024, he testified before the U.S. Congress on state-level challenges facing electric service reliability.
Huston currently serves as co-chair of the Federal-State Issues Collaborative, and holds roles with the North American Electric Reliability Corporation and GTI Energy.
'I want to thank Chairman Jim Huston for his service with the IURC over the past decade. He is a lifelong public servant and is leaving the agency in much better shape than when he arrived,' Gov. Mike Braun said in a statement. 'I wish Chairman Huston the best in retirement.'
Prior to his IURC appointment, Huston served as chief of staff at the Indiana State Department of Health. During Gov. Mitch Daniels' administration, he separately served as executive director of the Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives. The office has since been absorbed by Indiana's Department of Workforce Development as the agency's 'Serve Indiana' division.
Huston also worked for four members of Congress and former Gov. Robert Orr. He has twice received the Sagamore of the Wabash, one of Indiana's highest honors.
Huston said he looks looks forward to 'the next chapter' of his life, which will include 'spending a little more time' with his family and grandchildren.
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