In the case of Vinson, Director of Economic Stabilization, et al. v. Washington Gas Light Co. et al., 1943, the Supreme Court ruled on whether or not a federal agency had overstepped its authority by freezing rates for natural gas companies during World War II to control inflation and stabilize the economy. The Washington Gas Light Company argued that this action was unconstitutional as it violated their Fifth Amendment rights by taking property without just compensation and due process of law. However, in a unanimous decision led by Justice William O Douglas, the court upheld that Congress did have such power under its war powers clause in times of national emergency like WWII to regulate private industry prices temporarily even if it resulted in financial loss for those businesses affected.

In the dissenting opinion for Vinson v. Washington Gas Light Co., Justice Frank Murphy argued that the majority's decision to uphold price controls set by the Director of Economic Stabilization was a violation of constitutional principles. He contended that such an action exceeded executive authority and encroached upon legislative powers, thus violating separation of powers doctrine. Furthermore, he expressed concern about potential abuses arising from unchecked administrative discretion in economic matters, arguing it could lead to arbitrary and discriminatory practices detrimental to businesses like Washington Gas Light Company. In his view, only Congress should have power over such significant policy decisions as setting prices on goods or services because they directly impact citizens' lives and livelihoods.