Supreme Court of the United States

Hanousek v. United States — Thomas, J., dissenting

January 10, 2000528 U.S. 1102

Summary

Justice Thomas dissents, arguing the Clean Water Act is not a public welfare offense because it covers ordinary industrial activities and imposes severe penalties. He contends criminal liability for ordinary negligence violates due process and would grant certiorari to delineate the public welfare doctrine's limits.