Railroads

The Elkins Act of 1903

The Elkins Act of 1903 was the first effective attempt at railroad legislation. Because of this act, Heavy fines were made on railroads that gave rebates and the shippers that accepted the rebates. So basically, if you tried to use rebates, you would be fined.



The Hepburn Act of 1906

The Hepburn Act restricted free passes. The Interstate Commerce Commission was expanded greatly. It now had power over express companies, sleeping-car companies, and pipelines and could also nullify existing rates and stipulate maximum rates.