Weightman v. The Corporation of Washington was a case heard by the United States Supreme Court in 1861. At issue was whether or not the city of Washington, D.C., had the authority to impose taxes on goods imported into its jurisdiction from other states and territories without congressional approval. The court held that it did not have such power, as Congress alone has exclusive control over interstate commerce under Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution. Furthermore, any attempt by local authorities to tax imports would be unconstitutional because it would interfere with Congress's ability to regulate trade between states and territories for their mutual benefit and protection. This decision established an important precedent regarding state taxation powers which still stands today: only Congress can authorize taxes on items crossing state lines for commercial purposes

In Weightman v. The Corporation of Washington, the Supreme Court was asked to decide whether a state-chartered corporation had the right to sue in federal court. The majority opinion held that it did not have such authority, but Justice Grier dissented from this ruling and argued that states should be allowed to bring suit in federal courts when their rights are infringed upon by other states or individuals. He reasoned that allowing corporations chartered by one state to sue another would help ensure equal protection under the law for all citizens regardless of where they live or what type of business entity they operate. Furthermore, he noted that Congress has already granted similar privileges through its legislation and thus there is no reason why corporations should be denied access as well. Ultimately, Justice Grier concluded his dissent with an appeal for greater respect towards corporate entities and urged his colleagues on the bench to recognize their importance within society today.