Maine v. Taylor
Citation
477 U.S. 131 (1986)
Facts
Maine banned the importation of live baitfish from outside the state in order to protect its native fish populations from parasites and non-native species that could devastate Maine’s unique aquatic ecology. A baitfish dealer was prosecuted for importing golden shiners from outside Maine.
Issue
Whether Maine’s ban on importation of live baitfish, which is facially discriminatory against interstate commerce, can survive Dormant Commerce Clause scrutiny.
Holding
The Court upheld Maine’s ban, finding it was justified by a legitimate local purpose that could not be adequately served by non-discriminatory alternatives.
Rule
A law that discriminates against interstate commerce survives the Dormant Commerce Clause if the state demonstrates a legitimate local purpose that cannot be served by non-discriminatory alternatives.