The Hepburn Act was a significant piece of legislation passed in 1906 in the United States. It aimed to strengthen the regulatory powers of the Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC), allowing it to set maximum railroad rates and regulate other transportation companies. This act was a response to public outcry over unfair practices by railroads, which often charged excessive fees. By empowering the ICC, the Hepburn Act sought to ensure fair competition and protect consumers from monopolistic practices. It marked a crucial step in the Progressive Era's efforts to regulate big business and promote economic fairness, reflecting growing concerns about corporate power in American society.