Lochner v. New York was a pivotal Supreme Court case that decided on the balance between state regulation and individual economic rights. The case originated when Joseph Lochner, a bakery owner, was fined for violating the New York Bakeshop Act of 1895, which limited bakers to working no more than 60 hours per week. Lochner ultimately contested the law, asserting that it infringed upon his 14th Amendment rights, particularly the liberty of contract. On April 17, 1905, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of Lochner, asserting that the New York statute constituted an unconstitutional interference with the freedom of contract, thus reaffirming the principle that individuals could negotiate the terms of their labor without excessive government interference.

The majority opinion, delivered by Justice Rufus Peckham, articulated a broader understanding of the due process clause, arguing that it should protect the right of individuals to engage in contracts freely. This ruling not only set a precedent for future labor law cases but also reflected prevailing attitudes toward capitalism and individualism in the early 20th century. The Lochner era that followed saw economic rights often prioritized over social and labor rights, leading to a turbulent relationship between labor unions and the state.

The immediate aftermath of the Lochner decision saw a series of legal battles over labor regulations, with courts frequently siding with businesses over state-imposed labor restrictions. The case encapsulated a defining moment in American constitutional interpretation, stressing economic liberty at a time when labor movements were gaining momentum and advocating for workers’ rights and protections. Such debates continue to resonate within discussions of economic policies and individual rights today.