Supreme Court Overturns Chevron Deference Precedent, Limiting Federal Regulatory Power

What is Chevron Deference?

Chevron deference is a legal doctrine that gives courts limited power to review the interpretations of ambiguous statutes by administrative agencies. This doctrine was established in a 1984 Supreme Court case, Chevron U.S.A., Inc. v. Natural Resources Defense Council, Inc.

Chevron Deference in Action

Under Chevron deference, courts must give great weight to an agency's interpretation of a statute if it is reasonable and consistent with the statute's purpose. This deference gives agencies broad authority to regulate and interpret the laws within their purview.

Supreme Court Overturns Chevron Deference

In a recent 6-3 decision, the Supreme Court overturned the Chevron deference precedent. This decision came in a case involving herring fishermen who were challenging a rule that required the industry to use a specific type of fishing gear. The Court held that the rule was not based on a reasonable interpretation of the underlying statute.

Impact on Federal Regulatory Power

The Supreme Court's decision has significant implications for federal regulatory power. By overturning Chevron deference, the Court has made it easier for courts to challenge agency regulations. This is likely to lead to a decrease in the scope and reach of federal regulations.