Hammer v. Dagenhart

Definition

Hammer v. Dagenhart was a Supreme Court case decided in 1918 that ruled the Keating-Owen Child Labor Act unconstitutional, asserting that Congress could not regulate child labor under the Commerce Clause. This case highlights the tension between federal and state powers, showcasing how decisions by the Court influenced the evolution of federalism in America and the relationship between national authority and states' rights.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The case arose when a North Carolina textile mill owner challenged the Keating-Owen Act, which aimed to restrict child labor by prohibiting interstate commerce of goods produced by factories employing children under certain ages.
2. The Supreme Court ruled in a 5-4 decision that Congress exceeded its powers under the Commerce Clause, as child labor was deemed a local issue that should be regulated by states.
3. The ruling in Hammer v. Dagenhart significantly limited federal intervention in labor issues and set a precedent for future cases involving the balance of power between state and federal governments.
4. This case contributed to the ongoing debate about the scope of federal powers versus states' rights, particularly regarding economic regulation and social welfare.
5. The decision was later effectively overturned by subsequent legislation and court rulings that recognized the need for federal regulation of labor practices, especially during the New Deal era.

Review Questions

• How did Hammer v. Dagenhart reflect the balance of power between state and federal governments during its time?
  • Hammer v. Dagenhart illustrated a significant moment in the balance of power where the Supreme Court ruled that child labor regulations fell within state jurisdiction rather than federal control. The Court's decision emphasized a strict interpretation of the Commerce Clause, suggesting that issues like child labor were local matters that did not warrant federal intervention. This ruling showcased the ongoing struggle over who had authority in regulating economic practices, marking a clear stance on states' rights during a time of growing federal interests.
• Discuss the implications of Hammer v. Dagenhart on future child labor laws and federal intervention.
  • The implications of Hammer v. Dagenhart were profound as it set a precedent limiting federal involvement in labor laws, especially concerning child labor. The Court's decision delayed national reform efforts to address exploitative labor practices until later legislative and judicial changes occurred. Eventually, this case led to a shift in public opinion and legislative action, paving the way for more robust federal laws during the New Deal era, which recognized the need for comprehensive regulation of labor practices across states.
• Evaluate how Hammer v. Dagenhart influenced the evolution of federalism in America and shaped subsequent Supreme Court decisions regarding commerce and labor.
  • Hammer v. Dagenhart significantly influenced the evolution of federalism by reinforcing states' rights over federal authority at a critical time in U.S. history. This ruling highlighted the limitations of Congress under the Commerce Clause concerning local economic matters, fostering an environment where states had greater control over their labor laws. However, as societal needs evolved and economic conditions changed, subsequent Supreme Court decisions gradually expanded federal regulatory powers again, illustrating a dynamic interpretation of federalism that continues to shape discussions around governance and authority today.

Related terms

Commerce Clause: A provision in the U.S. Constitution that gives Congress the power to regulate commerce among the states, with foreign nations, and with Indian tribes.

Child Labor: The practice of employing children in an industry or business, often in conditions considered harmful or exploitative.

Federalism:

A system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units, like states.