What year did the Supreme Court uphold a state's right to set minimum wage laws?

What year did the Supreme Court uphold a state's right to set minimum wage laws?

• A. 1917
• B. 1937
• C. 1931
• D. 1941

Answer: (B)

The year when the Supreme Court upheld a state's right to set minimum wage laws is significant within the context of labor law and the evolution of workers' rights in the United States. In 1937, the Supreme Court's decision in *West Coast Hotel Co. v. Parrish* marked a pivotal moment, as it upheld Washington state's minimum wage law for women and minors. This case reversed earlier decisions that had invalidated such laws on the grounds of the freedom of contract. The ruling established the government’s role in regulating wages, asserting that states have the authority to protect the welfare of their citizens through minimum wage legislation. This was an important step in recognizing the need for regulatory intervention to ensure fair pay and working conditions, especially during a time when economic challenges compelled more attention to labor rights. While other years mentioned may have seen related decisions or discussions around labor laws, it was specifically in 1937 that the Supreme Court clearly affirmed the legality of states implementing minimum wage laws, thereby ensuring greater protections for workers.

The year when the Supreme Court upheld a state's right to set minimum wage laws is significant within the context of labor law and the evolution of workers' rights in the United States. In 1937, the Supreme Court's decision in West Coast Hotel Co. v. Parrish marked a pivotal moment, as it upheld Washington state's minimum wage law for women and minors. This case reversed earlier decisions that had invalidated such laws on the grounds of the freedom of contract. The ruling established the government’s role in regulating wages, asserting that states have the authority to protect the welfare of their citizens through minimum wage legislation. This was an important step in recognizing the need for regulatory intervention to ensure fair pay and working conditions, especially during a time when economic challenges compelled more attention to labor rights.

While other years mentioned may have seen related decisions or discussions around labor laws, it was specifically in 1937 that the Supreme Court clearly affirmed the legality of states implementing minimum wage laws, thereby ensuring greater protections for workers.