Supreme Court Rules to Take Away Power of Independent Agencies

WASHINGTON, DC - Today, in a 6-3 ruling, the Supreme Court issued a decision that presidents can dismiss the heads of independent agencies at their discretion without citing a particular cause. While the case involved the Federal Trade Commission, the same rationale would apply to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC).

By overturning Humphrey's Executor v. United States, the Court has opened the door for presidents to remove commissioners at independent agencies because they disagree with the commissioners' decisions. This decision could fundamentally change how FERC and other agencies operate by inviting political meddling into objective decision-making. FERC is an independent agency charged with overseeing America's electric grid, gas infrastructure, and wholesale energy markets.

In response to the ruling, Sierra Club Executive Director Loren Blackford released the following statement:

"Today's Supreme Court decision overturning nearly a century of precedent represents a profound shift in the balance of American government. This decision will place unprecedented authority in the hands of the president.

"Independent agencies like FERC exist for a reason. Congress deliberately structured bodies like FERC to lessen political pressure so they could make technical, evidence-based decisions that protect consumers, ensure reliable energy markets, and safeguard critical infrastructure. Today's ruling threatens to replace independent judgment with political loyalty."

About the Sierra Club

The Sierra Club is America's largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization, with millions of members and supporters. In addition to protecting every person's right to get outdoors and access the healing power of nature, the Sierra Club works to promote clean energy, safeguard the health of our communities, protect wildlife, and preserve our remaining wild places through grassroots activism, public education, lobbying, and legal action. For more information, visit https://www.sierraclub.org.