Justice Neil Gorsuch Warns Americans of Legal Overload: Are We Getting ‘Thwacked’ with Too Many Laws?

In a recent speech delivered to the Federalist Society in Washington, D.C., Justice Neil Gorsuch of the US Supreme Court expressed his concerns regarding the increasing complexity of laws in the United States. Gorsuch, appointed to the court by President Donald Trump, highlighted his perception that the sheer volume of laws and regulations currently in place often lead to confusion and potential injustice for ordinary Americans.

The justice pointed out that in the US, there are over 13,000 federal crimes and nearly 300,000 regulatory offenses on the books. Gorsuch conveyed his belief that the proliferation of laws has reached a point where even the most well-intentioned citizens may unwittingly find themselves running afoul of obscure regulations. This, in turn, can lead to unjust outcomes where individuals face severe penalties for unintentional or minor infractions.

Gorsuch argued that the complexity and sheer number of laws create a situation where even legal experts cannot provide definitive answers to individuals seeking to comply with the law. This lack of clarity, according to the justice, undermines the principles of fair notice and due process that are fundamental to the American justice system.

Additionally, Justice Gorsuch expressed concern over the amount of legislative authority being delegated to executive branch agencies, which creates a situation where unelected bureaucrats have significant power to make laws that impact the lives of citizens. This practice, Gorsuch believes, runs counter to the separation of powers established by the US Constitution and undermines democratic accountability.

Gorsuch’s remarks have sparked debate among legal scholars and policymakers, with some agreeing that the complexity of laws in the US poses a significant challenge to justice and fairness. Critics, however, argue that the intricate web of laws and regulations is necessary to address the complexities of modern society and ensure public safety and welfare.

As the legal landscape continues to evolve, the issues raised by Justice Gorsuch serve as a reminder of the importance of a clear and accessible legal system that upholds the principles of fairness, transparency, and accountability. Addressing the concerns surrounding the proliferation of laws is essential to safeguarding the rights and liberties of all Americans and ensuring a just and equitable society for generations to come.