Nevada’s longtime consumer advocate resigns

Thursday, March 9, 2000 | 9:29 a.m.

Schmidt, 47, announced Wednesday that he is leaving the post to become a partner in a private law firm. His resignation is effective March 24.

Schmidt was appointed to his state post in 1988 by former Republican Attorney General Brian McKay. He was twice reappointed by McKay's successor, Democrat Frankie Sue Del Papa.

He oversaw, litigated or negotiated settlements on utility company mergers and rate hike requests with electric, gas, water and telecommunications firms.

"His efforts in these cases saved Nevada consumers millions of dollars," Del Papa said. "I understand the personal and financial considerations that brought him to his decision to pursue other opportunities.

Schmidt, who was paid $84,550, will become the second lawyer and first partner in the Carson City office of the law firm of Hale, Peek, Dennison, Howard, Anderson and Pearl.

The firm has 50 lawyers in Reno and Las Vegas.

"Leaving a job I love was difficult for me," Schmidt said.

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