Dean Milk Company v. City of Madison (1940)
- Docket
- 258
- Decided
- 1940-1955-
Summary
Question: Did the Madison ordinance unconstitutionally interfere with interstate commerce? Conclusion: In a 6-to-3 decision authored by Justice Tom C. Clark, the Court struck down the ordinance under the commerce clause. The majority reasoned that general discrimination against non-local producers was not narrowly tailored to serve the city's interests. Moreover, reasonable and nondiscriminatory alternatives were available to ensure milk sold in the city was wholesome and properly pasteurized. Cities and states, the Court reasoned, are not allowed to economically isolate themselves from the rest of the nation. Justices Black, Douglas, and Minton dissented.