The Montgomery advertiser., 1903-01-30
Railroad Commission Bill.
Mobile Register.

The Register has heretofore explained its objection to the elective feature. It would seem to be going too far in the dark. If. as Is claimed, the Commission is ineffective and does not protect the people against the exactions of the rail- roads, there are two assignable reasons: the one Is that the Commission has not sufficient power; and the other Is that the Commission is under the influence of the railroad corporations. For our part. we have never observed any act of the Alabama Commission which indicated subservience to the railroads. We believe there is no more honorable. upright and courageous man in the State than Presi- dsnt Smith of the Commission, and we have convincing evidence that he has been at all times the servant of the people and not of the railroads. We believe, however, that the powers of the Com mission are inadequate. Should we not first essay to increase those powers. with out changing the manner of choosing the Commissioners? If we have elections by the people we introduce partisan or po- litical feeling, we encourage appeals to the preJudices of the masses. we run the risk of seeing elected the men who will promise the most of anta gonism to capi- tai. Why run such risk unless 1t be the powers of the Commission are en- larged, there will be the service that the people need and expect; and if this can be obtained. without the introduction of demagogy, should we not be satisfied? At least, let the first reform be tested before the second. If the added powers do not demonstrate that the Commission as then composed, is of value, it will be easy to change the law and elect the Commissioners. and see if that further change produces the effect that is desired motto for reformers to9follow.
 As to the powers that the bill seeks to confer upon the Commission, some are mn to hn to xe N~a absolutely fixed without due hearing of the reasons for and against 1t, and there is provided an appeal to the State courts As we understand it. action on rates not wait for complaint of person or cor porations of damage inflicted by discrim- nation. The method to be followed here has been in practice in Texas, and al- though considerable public discussion has been raised there over the struggle be- tween the railroads and the Conmission, there is reason to think that the situa- ton has been finally accepted, and some modus Eivendi has been found. Much de- bends, we think. upon the spirit in which such law is enforced. If the desire is to harass. to hamper and crush the rail- roads, the powers to be given to the Commission are very great but if simple justice. the prevention of undue favorit- ism the granting of rebates, the with holding of cars. and discrimination in the conduct of railroad bushes, are sought the Commission will, with such powers, be able to do much to relieve the people, and not necessarily injure the railroad companies. We believe the railroad com panies themselves will find a benefit in the operation of any law that will pre- vent rate cutting, rebates, etc Granting the establishment of a reasonable tariff they should welcome the strict observ, ance of it by all railroads Whether the proposed law will accomplish this is a question, of course. Eminent railroad au- fh0ritieS declare that ''nn of rate-making can prevent secret rate cutting" That is a dictum that can best be tested by the experiment.