Wickard v. Filburn
In the case of Wickard v. Filburn, decided in 1942, the U.S. Supreme Court addressed the limits of federal power under the Commerce Clause. Roscoe Filburn, a farmer, grew wheat for personal use beyond the amount allowed by federal regulations. The government penalized him for exceeding his quota, arguing that his actions affected interstate commerce.
The Court ruled in favor of the government, stating that even personal consumption of wheat could impact market prices and overall commerce. This decision expanded federal authority, allowing regulation of local activities that could have a substantial effect on interstate commerce, reinforcing the government's power over economic activities.