You might also wonder if we think amending the TIA will be easy. Not at all, we know it will be a tough go. North Dakota's RECs are very influential. Those urban RECs affected by the bill will oppose it, and we expect them to argue their case using points that may or may not be pertinent to the TIA issue. I hope you take an interest in this issue because, no matter who delivers electricity to you, the TIA probably impacts you in some way.
Keeps intact the rural electric co-op's mandate to maintain electric service in rural areas.
Allows co-ops to continue to serve urban areas, if allowed by franchises. Affords over time, the opportunity for electric public utilities to grow within the corporate limits of the municipalities as they grow. Recognizes that rural electric cooperatives do not exist to compete with private enterprise, and Recognizes that rural electric cooperatives exist to provide an essential service that would not otherwise be available to rural North Dakota. Will not kick the co-ops out of town.