Top California regulator accused of secret dealings with utility to leave post at end of year

California's chief utility regulator, under fire over accusations of secret dealings with the state's largest utility, says he will not seek reappointment when his term ends at the end of the year.

California Public Utilities Commission President Michael Peevey made the announcement Thursday in a statement. It came as a state lawmaker said he would bring legislation to block Peevey's reappointment to a second term.

Peevey is under fire in connection with a series of emails describing alleged backroom dealings between him and others at the commission and California's biggest utility, Pacific Gas & Electric Co.

In emails released Monday, a PG&E official says Peevey pressed him for more than $1 million in campaign donations and other funds.