I think this state of affairs sucks.
No argument there.
The #@%$@# lobbyists force us consumers to accept this crap, they
> got the legislatures to water down laws.
Whoa, nelly.
Lobbyists don't / can't force consumers to do anything. Lobbyists don't / can't force legislatures to do anything. Lobbyists are paid to influence legislatures. Presumably, the clients who pay them want them to do a good job. If said lobbyists have 'got' legislatures to do something the client desires, then they have done a good job.
However ... legislatures are paid to represent the will of the people. If legislatures 'water down laws' that the people, their clients, desire, then said legislatures have not done a good job.
Remember: in a democracy, the people get the government they deserve.
Cheers,
Henry