Today in Supreme Court History: June 23, 1987

On June 23, 1987, the Supreme Court ruled in South Dakota v. Dole, a case that challenged the federal government's power to impose conditions on states' receipt of federal funds. The decision upheld the constitutionality of Congress setting conditions on the use of federal highway funds, marking a significant moment in the balance of power between federal and state governments. This ruling reinforced Congress's authority to use spending power as a tool to influence state behavior on issues like drinking age laws. It's a reminder of the ongoing tension over federalism and the extent of federal regulatory reach.