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United States v. Lopez
514 US 549(1995)
Author:- Secret Agent Man
Facts: The defendant, a senior in high school at the time, was found to be in possession of a .38 caliber pistol and five live shells while on school grounds. He was arrested under a Texas law that prohibits possession of a firearm within 1000 ft. of a school.
Procedural History: State charges were dismissed to allow Federal charges to be brought against the accused under the Gun-free Schools Act of 1990. The defense moved for a dismissal on the grounds that Congress has no authority to regulate the laws of public schools. The motion was denied on the basis that under the Commerce Clause of the US Constitution, that Congress may legislate local laws concerning or affecting interstate trade. The defendant waived his right to a jury trial and was subsequently found guilty of the charges. On appeal to the 5th Circuit US Court of Appeals, the defense reiterated its claim that the Gun-free Schools Act was beyond Congress’ scope of power under the Commerce Clause. The prosecution’s case stated that the presence of guns in schools is disruptive to the learning environment. By consequence of this, schools will produce less productive future workers, thus affecting the economy. The initial decision was overturned and federal ch! arges were dismissed. The People’s appeal to the US Supreme Court affirmed the previous decision.
Issues: Is the power to regulate local public matters outside of the scope of Congress’ commercial regulation powers?
Held: The US Supreme Court held that the prosecution’s rationalization of the Commerce Clause was weak and that non-commercial state matters were indeed outside of the control of Congress.
Rationale: The matter did not directly relate to regulations set under the Commerce Clause.