Letter to the Editor

Bill restores consumer freedom

We have an Anti-Smart Meter Bill, HB 1932, in Jefferson City! This bill actually gives freedom back to consumers, which the utilities have taken away via implied consent. Smart meters are the metering device system on your house or business that measures, records and sends detailed utility usage or other data, via radio waves or over power lines. These meters are a threat to our privacy, security and safety. Property owners should be the only ones to decide if they want unproven and dangerous devices on their homes. The utility companies have not given full disclosure of the meters functionalities before foisting on their customers. The old analog meters last longer and are much less expensive.

Customers could easily call in their monthly reading or take a picture and send by email. Also with budget billing, there is no need to read monthly. Since the arrival of smart meters, have any of us seen a reduction in our bill or a reduction in utility employees? Property rights are essential to liberty. The right to privacy is at the very core of our constitution. HB 1932 is pro-consumer, pro-choice and allows customers to protect the sovereignty of their homes and it won't cost a penny. Please call your representative and encourage them to vote yes for this bill, because freedom is a beautiful thing!

Linda Reutzel, Cape Girardeau