Should utility companies be allowed to pay cash dividends?

"Should" they be allowed? In that sentence, it sounds to me like "should" is an opinion. That is, asking for an opinion of whether they should be allowed to.

Is this for homework? If so, we aren't here to just answer things for you. You should make an attempt to do it yourself first. Especially if it's asking for an opinion -- that should be your opinion, not ours.