From our friend and energy expert Jim Clarkson at Resource Supply Management.

“May I help you, sir?” “Yes, ma’am. I’d like to get a license to loot and plunder.” “Certainly, sir. I have the application paperwork right here. Just a few questions to get started. Do you have the state-granted Exclusive Territory Form showing where your consumer victims are located?” “I don’t have one. At least not yet.” “How many politicians do you have in your pocket? Slick downtown law firm? Team of smooth-talking lobbyists?” “Umm, er, no.” “Sir, you can’t get a Looter’s License. These are for regulated utility monopolies.” “But I see the electric and gas companies doing the same things on a much larger scale, and those guys never go to jail.” “I’m sorry, sir, You just don’t meet the basic requirements.” “Oh, no. You mean …” “That’s right. APPLICATION DENIED!”