Supreme Court Weakens Federal Agencies' Regulatory Power

The Supreme Court in Washington

The Supreme Court made a significant ruling on Friday that will have far-reaching implications for federal agencies' ability to approve regulations. In a 6-3 decision, the Court overturned a 1984 precedent, shifting the balance of power between the executive and judicial branches. This decision is seen as a victory for conservatives aiming to limit the regulatory authority of the 'administrative state'.

The case originated from lawsuits filed by herring fishermen challenging a Commerce Department regulation that required them to cover the salaries of government observers monitoring their catch. However, the ruling will impact a wide range of federal regulations affecting various aspects of American life.

The decision overturns the Chevron v. Natural Resources Defense Council precedent, which mandated courts to defer to federal agencies when creating regulations based on ambiguous laws. Chief Justice John Roberts stated that courts must now independently assess whether agencies have acted within their statutory authority.

Justice Neil Gorsuch criticized Chevron Deference as a departure from historic judicial practice, undermining core rule-of-law values. Justice Elana Kagan, in dissent, expressed concerns about the majority's expanded power over regulatory law interpretations.

The ruling shifts the balance of power between the executive and judicial branches.

The Supreme Court overturned a 1984 precedent in a 6-3 decision.

The case originated from herring fishermen challenging a Commerce Department regulation.

Conservatives have long argued for limiting Washington's control over American industry and individual lives. The Court's decision reflects a broader trend of diminishing federal power, with the recent case providing an opportunity for a significant stride in that direction.

The fishermen argued that agencies should not be able to impose requirements without explicit approval from Congress, a position supported by the Court's recent rulings. This decision adds to previous instances where the Court curtailed federal agencies' regulatory authority.

The ruling marks a continuation of the Court's efforts to limit federal power, as seen in previous decisions striking down Biden administration initiatives. The Court's actions reflect a broader conservative agenda to rein in regulatory authority and ensure greater oversight of federal agencies.