What is the main role of the Georgia Public Service Commission (GPSC)?

The main role of the Georgia Public Service Commission (GPSC) is to protect public interests and encourage business. This commission primarily oversees utilities and ensures that essential services such as electricity, natural gas, and telecommunications are provided efficiently and fairly to all citizens. By regulating these utilities, the GPSC helps to balance the needs of consumers for reliable and affordable services with the operational needs of the businesses that provide those services.

This role is critical in maintaining a stable economic environment, fostering competition, and ensuring that the public has access to necessary services without unfair practices. The GPSC also has authority over rate-setting, which directly affects both consumers and service providers, reinforcing its mission to serve the public's best interests while promoting a functioning market.

The other options do not align with the core functions of the GPSC. Approving state laws pertains to legislative roles, managing the state budget falls under the purview of executive branches and financial departments, and enforcing criminal laws is strictly a function of law enforcement agencies. None of these responsibilities relate to the regulatory and protective functions assigned to the GPSC.