Why the Filed Rate Doctrine Should Not Imply Blanket Judicial Deference to Regulatory Agencies

Administrative & Regulatory Law News, Fall 2008

FSU College of Law, Public Law Research Paper No. 329

6 Pages Posted: 22 Dec 2008 Last revised: 10 Jan 2009

See all articles by Jim Rossi

Jim Rossi

Vanderbilt University - Law School

Date Written: December 21, 2008

Abstract

The filed rate doctrine is a venerable doctrine of public utility regulation. Federal courts applying the doctrine frequently defer to the regulatory agency and refuse to consider the merits of alleged violations of antitrust, tort or contract claims where resolution would require a departure from a filed rate. For over a century, the filed rate doctrine has served many important purposes. However, with increased attention to market-based approaches to electric power, natural gas and telecommunications regulation, there is reason to question both the doctrine's continued applicability and usefulness. This short essay argues that, as regulators implement competitive markets in utility industries, at a minimum the traditional principles of deference which courts applied in this context need to be reassessed.

Keywords: Judicial Review, Antitrust, Regulated Industries

Suggested Citation

Rossi, Jim, Why the Filed Rate Doctrine Should Not Imply Blanket Judicial Deference to Regulatory Agencies (December 21, 2008). Administrative & Regulatory Law News, Fall 2008, FSU College of Law, Public Law Research Paper No. 329, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1319065

Jim Rossi (Contact Author)

Vanderbilt University - Law School ( email )

131 21st Ave S
Nashville, TN 37203-5724
United States
6153436620 (Phone)

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