The Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission, also known as UTC, is administered by the government of Washington State. Founded in 1905, the commission protects consumers from poor services and unfair rates. It regulates nonpublic service companies and the telecommunications, natural gas, electricity, solid waste collection and household goods moving industries. The commission conducts rail safety education campaigns. It approves mergers between companies and resolves disputes between parties. The Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission tracks and manages more than 1,800 filings every year. It additionally functions as a fact-finding tribunal and holds judicial-style hearings on contested rate cases and complaints. The commission operates a business practices investigations section and safety and consumer protection division.