Consumers Union of the United States, Inc., v. Kissinger
United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit
506 F.2d 136 (1974)

- Written by Josh Lee, JD
Facts
The United States experienced an increase in steel imports from Japan and the European Communities of more than 10 times from 1958–1968. The executive branch became worried about the domestic market for steel, which was important to national security and the economy. The State Department advised against entering into specific trade agreements, and the executive branch began discussions with Japan and the European Communities. Eventually, Japan and the European Communities sent a formal letter stating that steel exports to the United States would be limited for a period of time. Consumers Union of the United States, Inc. (plaintiff), a consumer’s group, filed a lawsuit and challenged the enforceability of these voluntary restrictions. The Consumers Union argued that the executive branch did not have the authority to negotiate or accept the voluntary trade restrictions. The trial court rejected the claims, and the Consumers Union appealed.
Rule of Law
Issue
Holding and Reasoning (McGowan, J.)
Dissent (Leventhal, J.)
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