Questions and Answers
Who was Filburn and what was the issue he faced regarding wheat production?
Filburn was a small farmer in Ohio who harvested nearly 12 acres of wheat above his allotment under the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1938.
What was the constitutional question at the center of Wickard v. Filburn?
Did the Act violate the Commerce Clause?
What was the outcome of the Wickard v. Filburn case?
A unanimous Court upheld the law.
What justification did the Court provide for its decision in Wickard v. Filburn?
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What was the Majority Opinion's stance on the 'direct versus indirect test'?
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What new doctrine was established in Wickard v. Filburn regarding local activity and commerce?
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Study Notes
Wickard v. Filburn Overview
- Filburn, a small Ohio farmer, harvested 12 acres of wheat exceeding his allotment established by the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1938.
- He was penalized for this excess production and claimed it was for personal use, affecting no interstate commerce since it never entered the market.
Constitutional Question
- The key issue at hand was whether the Agricultural Adjustment Act violated the Commerce Clause of the Constitution.
Case Outcome
- The Supreme Court ruled unanimously in favor of upholding the Agricultural Adjustment Act.
Court Reasoning
- The ruling articulated that the Commerce Clause empowers Congress to regulate prices in agriculture, stating this law was related to that valid purpose.
- The Court determined that Congress could regulate intrastate activities impacting interstate commerce, even if individually they seemed insignificant, as their cumulative effect could be substantial.
Majority Opinion Insights
- Justice Jackson argued against a rigid "direct versus indirect" test for congressional powers, emphasizing that the effects of an activity on interstate commerce should be the primary focus rather than specific terminologies.
New Legal Doctrine Established
- It was established that local activities not classified as commerce could still fall under congressional regulation if they have a significant economic impact on interstate commerce.
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Description
Test your knowledge on the landmark case Wickard v. Filburn with these flashcards. This quiz covers key facts and definitions related to the Agricultural Adjustment Act and its implications on interstate commerce. Perfect for law students and enthusiasts!
