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Hepburn Act: Key Legal Insights and Historical Significance
Definition & Meaning
The Hepburn Act is a significant piece of legislation in the United States that regulates the railroad industry. It empowers the Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC) to establish maximum rates that railroads can charge for transporting goods. Additionally, the Act allows the ICC to review the financial records of railroads, ensuring transparency and standardization in bookkeeping practices. The Hepburn Act also made ICC orders legally binding, meaning railroads must comply with them or contest them in federal court. Furthermore, the Act addresses issues of discrimination and limits the issuance of free passes, while increasing the number of ICC commissioners from five to seven.
Table of content
Legal Use & context
The Hepburn Act is primarily used in the context of transportation law and regulatory compliance. It plays a crucial role in overseeing the operations of railroads, ensuring fair pricing and preventing discriminatory practices. Legal professionals may encounter the Hepburn Act in cases involving disputes over railroad rates or compliance with ICC regulations. Users can manage related forms and procedures through resources like US Legal Forms, which provide templates for legal documents associated with transportation regulations.
Key legal elements
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A railroad company is found to be charging rates above the maximum set by the ICC. The ICC can enforce compliance by requiring the company to adjust its rates accordingly.
Example 2: A user files a complaint with the ICC about discriminatory practices in railroad service. The ICC investigates and issues an order that the railroad must follow to rectify the situation. (hypothetical example)
Relevant laws & statutes
The primary statute associated with the Hepburn Act is the Hepburn Act itself, enacted in 1906. It amended the Interstate Commerce Act of 1887, enhancing the regulatory powers of the ICC over railroads.
Comparison with related terms
Term
Definition
Difference
Interstate Commerce Act
Original legislation regulating interstate transportation.
The Hepburn Act amends and expands the powers granted by this Act.
Railroad Rate Regulation
General term for laws governing railroad pricing.
The Hepburn Act specifically empowers the ICC to set maximum rates.
Common misunderstandings
What to do if this term applies to you
If you are affected by railroad rates or practices that may violate the Hepburn Act, consider filing a complaint with the ICC. You can also consult legal resources or templates available on US Legal Forms to assist you in preparing necessary documentation. If your situation is complex, seeking professional legal advice may be beneficial.
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