A Theoretical Justification for Special Solicitude: States and the Administrative State

Authors

Matthew S. Melamed, United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit

Abstract

The article examines the Supreme Court's decision in Massachusetts v. EPA, focusing on the doctrine of special solicitude in standing analysis for states. It argues that the Court's recognition of Massachusetts' quasisovereign interest to challenge the EPA's denial of a rulemaking petition reflects a federalist concern, ensuring states can hold federal administrative agencies accountable. The analysis critiques the Court's reliance on special solicitude, highlighting tensions between traditional standing requirements and the unique role of states in constitutional adjudication. The article posits that the special function model of standing, which emphasizes states' roles as protectors of citizens' interests, provides a theoretical justification for this doctrine.

Disciplines

Constitutional Law | Jurisdiction | Law

Recommended Citation

Matthew S. Melamed, A Theoretical Justification for Special Solicitude: States and the Administrative State, 8 Cardozo Pub. L. Pol’y & Ethics J. 577 (2010).
Available at: https://larc.cardozo.yu.edu/cplpej/vol8/iss3/3