The Work of the Interstate Commerce Commission presents a historical analysis of how the ICC operated, decided cases, and interacted with lawmakers, courts, and the railroad industry.
It examines long-running trends in decisions, the outcomes for complainants, and the limits of Commission authority.
Drawing on tables and summaries, the book investigates the scope of cases, the balance between freight and passenger matters, and the evolution of regulatory thinking. It also critiques published abstracts and discusses the broader implications for capital costs, operating expenses, and the role of the courts in enforcing Commission orders. The work blends data with commentary on policy and constitutional questions surrounding regulatory powers.
- Shows how many cases were decided and how outcomes favored complainants over time.
- Explores the distinction between operating costs and capital costs in rail transportation.
- Discusses the relationship between the Commission, railways, and the courts, including enforcement issues.
- Suggests remedies centered on better relations between parties and judicial enforcement of existing law.
Ideal for readers interested in railroad history, regulatory policy, and the legal history of U.S. transportation.