Have you ever received a notice from the government that you violated a rule that you didn’t know about?
In the 1990’s, the Boucher family removed nine trees from their property as an attempt to mitigate the buildup of trash and dumping on their land. This action triggered a United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) investigation suspecting environmental damage. Consequently, the Bouchers lost eligibility for USDA benefits, including “Swampbuster” provisions. In Boucher vs. USDA, the government grapples with balancing natural resource protection and individual liberties. This case underscores the long and painstaking nature of government processes, emphasizing the time and diligence often required for justice and good governance.
In the third episode of “Regulation and Red Tape,” experts highlight the broader implications of Boucher vs. USDA and consider the balance between regulatory enforcement and individual rights.
Featuring:
- Michael Cooley, Managing Partner, Allen Wellman McNew Harvey, LLP
- Duane Hovorka, Senior Agriculture Policy Specialist, National Wildlife Federation
- Annie Donaldson Talley, Luther Strange and Associates
- Host: Hon. Paul Ray, Director, Thomas A. Roe Institute for Economic Policy Studies, The Heritage Foundation
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As always, the Federalist Society takes no position on particular legal or public policy issues; all expressions of opinion are those of the speaker.