Washblog

I've been reading info on the Grange websites recently and was interested to come across their statement of caution on the current legislation that threatens net neutrality.  They see it as interfering with free commerce for rural businesses -- at least that's how I read this:

"The complex and contentious issue of network neutrality stands to seriously delay the benefits of new broadband deployment and could very well have adverse, unintended consequences in the areas of telecommuting, telemedicine and the ability of small rural businesses to compete in global markets - all of which are vital to the economic future of rural communities."

The Grange has an interesting history of standing up for free commerce that might get in the way of the efficiences and profits of big corporations -- but that is  needed to support communities.  The Grange, with the first ever Initiative (#1) in Washington State, established the Public Utility Districts because (my reading of things here) the powers that were wouldn't supply farmers with electricity at reasonable prices.  You can read about it here on the Washington Public Utility Districts Association history page:

"The story of public power in Washington state reads almost like a fictional epic. Forced by necessity, local people decided to serve themselves with electricity. Armed with perseverance and strong motivation, but little technical know-how, they established grassroots, democratic, home-owned electric utilities."

by noemie maxwell on Sat Jun 17, 2006 at 09:40:33 PM PST

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