INDIANAPOLIS — Gov. Mike Braun and former Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission Chairman Andy Zay have reached a $625,000 settlement over the weekend to resolve Zay’s lawsuit against the state.
The State of Indiana will pay Zay $485,000 to settle his lawsuit over his removal from the IURC, saying that the total shows the “reasonable net present value of the remaining salary and benefits if Zay had served through March 31, 2030.”
The state will pay the remaining $140,000 as part of the settlement to cover attorney fees for Zay, as well as his lawyers at Betz + Blevins.
Braun’s office announced the settlement Saturday.
“I am pleased that we have been able to reach a resolution,” Braun said in a statement. “This agreement allows all involved to move forward constructively in the best interest of Hoosiers.”
Braun also thanked Zay for his years of public service.
“I want to recognize Andy for his service to the state,” Braun said. “Public service is demanding work, and I appreciate his contributions over the course of a decade on behalf of Hoosiers.”
Zay said he was disappointed to no longer be involved with the IURC but believes settling the lawsuit is the right move.
“The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission performs important work on behalf of all Hoosiers,” Zay said in a statement released by Braun’s office. “I’m proud to have been involved in addressing these issues during my time on the Utilities Committee in the Indiana Senate and later as Chair and Commissioner of the IURC.”
Zay said he appreciates Braun’s willingness to reach an agreement.
“I believe resolution with the State is in everyone’s best interest at this time,” Zay said.
State officials say Zay violated policies, including failure to file proper financial paperwork and giving gifts he shouldn’t have.
