Watchtower Bible & Tract Society of New York, Inc. v. Village of Stratton — Rehnquist, J., Dissenting

Summary

Chief Justice Rehnquist dissents, arguing that the Village of Stratton’s discretion‑less permit requirement for door‑to‑door canvassers is constitutionally permissible under intermediate scrutiny and should have been upheld. He contends the majority abandons over six decades of precedent and misapplies the First Amendment framework. The dissent notes the ordinance serves significant interests in preventing fraud, crime, and protecting privacy, and that it is narrowly tailored with ample alternative channels for speech. Justice Breyer and Justice Scalia each file concurring opinions, joining the judgment but criticizing aspects of the majority’s reasoning.