Hepburn Act

The Hepburn Act, passed in 1906, was a federal law that strengthened regulation of the railroad industry. It gave the Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC) the authority to set maximum railroad rates and extend its oversight to additional services like pipelines and express companies. This helped prevent unfair pricing and discriminatory practices, ensuring fairer treatment for customers. The act aimed to curb the monopolistic power of railroads and promote fair competition, making transportation prices more transparent and just. Overall, it was a significant step toward regulating powerful industries and protecting consumers during the early 20th century.