Public Service Board
The Public Service Board (PSB) is a quasi-judicial body that serves as the decision-maker in the 248 legal process, and generally has authority over utilities in Vermont. The PSB regulates electric power companies, telephone service providers, cable television providers, pipeline gas companies, and some private water companies. It is composed of a three-member Board and a staff of two.

In most cases, a staff member is appointed to serve as a hearing officer to conduct the legal proceedings and issue a proposal for decision. After the parties have an opportunity to comment on the proposal for decision, the PSB has the ultimate authority and responsibility to modify or adopt the proposal for decision in a final order.

PARTIES IN THE CASE

The Petitioner(s)
The petitioner is the party (or parties) in a case that initiates the case by filing a petition with the Public Service Board requesting a particular action. In the Lamoille Transmission Upgrade Project the petitioners are the Vermont Electric Power Company (VELCO), Stowe Electric Department, and Green Mountain Power. The petition seeks a certificate of public good to construct the Lamoille upgrade.

Department of Public Service (DPS)
The DPS is the state agency serves as the public advocate in utility matters before the PSB including Section 248 proceedings A project within the scope of Section 248 is reviewed and evaluated by DPS staff and experts retained by DPS. DPS staff and experts testify on the petition and make recommendations to the PSB. DPS can recommend that the proposal go forward with or without modifications or be denied. (Recommended modifications may include recommended "mitigation," steps DPS recommends to reduce aesthetic or other impacts on the affected communities.)

Agency of Natural Resources (ANR)
ANR participates in all Section 248 proceedings for the purpose of evaluating the potential impact of the project on the natural environment.

Interveners
Interveners are the other parties in a 248 proceeding that have official status as participants in the process. State agencies and affected towns and local planning commissions often intervene. Landowners, environmental organizations, and public interest groups may be allowed to intervene and become parties if they can demonstrate that they have a significant interest which may be adversely affected by the outcome of the case. Iintervener status is considered appropriate if the proceeding represents the only means to protect that interest, and if the interest is not adequately represented by the other existing parties.

INTERESTED PERSONS

Interested persons are individuals who have requested to receive copies of all documents in a case. Although they are not formal parties and cannot participate in technical hearings, they are included on the service list, ensuring they receive copies of all filings by the parties, as well as orders and memoranda issued by the Board.