The federal government has unleashed airline and telephone commercial activity to private markets.
Deregulation generally allows for increased competition and lower prices for consumers.
As a farm state senator, the possibility for deregulation of electric utilities causes me some concerns. In fact, special attention must be taken to avoid harmful consequences for rural consumers, including small business owners and farmers. For 60 years, the rural electric cooperatives have provided a reliable and affordable source of electricity for rural America. Any steps towards deregulation must ensure these consumers aren't cut off or forced to pay exorbitant rates for service. In the energy crisis in the late 1970s, Congress encouraged rural cooperatives to invest in nuclear power plants to limit the use of oil and natural gas.