commission until her term expires in two years.
In a statement announcing his choice, Casey said Shane's designation - coupled with other recent appointments to the PUC - "will ensure that Pennsylvania ratepayers are well represented."
At the same time, Casey called on the state Senate to finally confirm his nominations of William H. Smith and Daniel Clearfield to serve on the panel. Both nominations have been approved by a Senate committee and are awaiting action by the full Senate.
The selection of Shane yesterday, while not unexpected, came despite strong concerns expressed by members of the legislative black caucus.
Rep. Gordon J. Linton (D., Phila.) said he had spoken late last week with a top Casey aide to voice concerns over Shane's behavior earlier this year during a legislative budget hearing.
Responding to a question, Shane said he considered it "humiliating and demeaning" to be asked about the percentage of minority employees on his staff. "I deeply resent it," he said.
The question was asked by Rep. Alphonso Deal (D., Phila.), who routinely had asked the same question of other state officials appearing before the House Appropriations Committee.
Deal, visibly angered by the comment, said, "I'm distressed to find that there are people like you sitting on the commission."
Shane said yesterday he had apologized to Deal, when he had a chance meeting with the legislator in the Capitol last week. "I told him I was sorry I spoke in anger," said Shane.
Linton, who was unaware of the apology, said he was not surprised that
Casey had appointed Shane, but felt it was important for the concerns to be registered.
"There was an issue that had not been resolved . . . and we're still seeking a resolution," said Linton.
Appointed to the PUC in 1984, Shane, 51, had previously served as an administrative law judge in the agency. A former state House member, he also served as a professor and dean of admissions at Indiana University of Pennsylvania.
