What was true about gas and electric service in cities prior to the progressive era?

Prior to progressive era the companies could charge as much as they wanted. The progressive era is the time when there was a huge level activism on social and political reforms. It was the time from 1890s to 1920s when the progressive movement was on its peak to end issues related to industrialization and corruption etc.

seeing as no choices were provided, i'll do my best to answer it from knowledge.

job specialization promotes work ethic to the person doing the job. he/she may be strong in the arms and able to lift things, specializing him/her in a job where you lift and carry.