Current install has a electrical box with a switch surface mounted under the sink. Then NM wire from the switch box to the disposal. That's how it was when I bought the house, and I've replace the disposal once, using the same setup. It lived a good life but is leaking and needs replaced.
New disposal has a plug. So I have the option to install an outlet or just removing the plug and using the existing NM wire.
Here's the issue. I'm reading a Black & Decker book and it says NM wire is not permitted in an open area where it can be damaged. Ok, but it makes me wonder.....if NM wire is a no-no, why is a cord with a plug on the end allowed? Does a cord offer more protection than the sheath on NM? I wouldn't think so.