In the case of Williams v. Oklahoma City, the U.S Supreme Court was asked to consider whether a city ordinance that required businesses operating in residential areas to close between midnight and 5:00 AM violated constitutional rights. The plaintiff, Mr. Williams, owned a coin-operated laundry business located in such an area and argued that this law infringed on his right to conduct lawful business activities during these hours. However, the court upheld the validity of this ordinance by ruling against him. They reasoned that it was within the power of local governments to enact laws for preserving public health and safety or promoting general welfare - including regulating business hours if necessary for maintaining peace and quiet in residential neighborhoods at night time.

In the dissenting opinion for Williams v. Oklahoma City, it was argued that the majority's decision to uphold a city ordinance prohibiting picketing in residential areas infringed upon First Amendment rights of free speech and assembly. The dissenters contended that peaceful picketing should be protected as an essential form of political expression, even if it takes place in a residential neighborhood. They believed that this ruling would set a dangerous precedent by allowing local governments to limit protest activities based on location alone, without considering whether such restrictions were necessary or justified under specific circumstances. Furthermore, they expressed concern about potential misuse of this power to suppress unpopular views or minority voices.