Regulator recuses himself amid PG&E emails probe

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — A California Public Utilities Commission member who was involved in secret email exchanges with the state's largest utility has recused himself from several matters related to the company.

Mike Florio said in a brief notice Wednesday that he is removing himself from an ongoing rate case involving Pacific Gas & Electric Co. and investigations related to a PG&E pipeline explosion that killed eight people in the city of San Bruno in 2010.

Florio and commission President Michael Peevey have been under fire since emails were made public showing their behind-the-scenes dealings with PG&E officials.

Florio says removing himself from the investigations is in the best interests of the commission and the public.

Peevey has announced he will not seek reappointment when his term ends at the end of the year.