There has been huge buzz in the media after a federal judge ruled in August that Google violated antitrust laws and has become a monopoly. The company could be forced to sell one of its most popular tools.
The federal government recently proposed forcing Google to sell its Chrome web browser to deal with its supposed search engine monopoly. The state argues that the company’s dominance stems from contracts that “make it harder for rivals to compete.”
Yet, as the search engine giant’s woes are the focus of conversation, little attention is paid to monopolies in our own backyards that actually affect consumers. Electricity companies in many states enjoy a de facto monopoly over the industry, which means less competition and higher prices for everyday folk. Indeed, several states, such as Iowa and Wisconsin, have been trying to pass legislation that would enshrine these companies as monopolies indefinitely.
These are called Right of First Refusal (ROFR) laws, which grant incumbent utility companies the exclusive right to construct, own, and operate new transmission lines that connect to their existing infrastructure.
These laws bypass the competitive bidding process and empower established utility companies to win projects without having to compete with other developers. Those supporting ROFR laws might suggest that they ensure that the grid remains reliable. But, in reality, they only serve to stifle competition and innovation while creating monopolies. The result is that the everyday consumer does not have options when it comes to determining where they get their energy.
I do believe tidal health has developed a monopoly on health care in Maryland’s three lower counties and Sussex county in Delaware which should not be allowed. My Dr moved out of state after the hostile take over of his practice by tidal health. Health care providers are forced to buy software for their practice that is unaffordable without joining tidal health and sharing the cost. He refused and started a new practice way south of here where the government is way less intrusive. I don’t blame him, although I do miss the great care he provided.