In a significant legal victory for President Biden, a federal judge has ordered the reinstatement of three Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) members. U.S. District Judge Matthew Maddox issued a 31-page ruling on June 13th, declaring the Trump administration’s removal of the commissioners unlawful and a violation of constitutional limits on presidential removal power.

The judge’s decision stems from a lawsuit filed by the commissioners—all appointees of President Biden—who argued that their removal by President Trump lacked legal justification. The Justice Department, defending the Trump administration’s actions, countered that the congressional restrictions on presidential removal were unconstitutional.

Judge Maddox rejected the Justice Department’s argument, concluding that the administration’s actions were invalid. The ruling mandates the reinstatement of the commissioners and requires the government to provide them with the resources necessary to fulfill their duties.

The CPSC plays a critical role in protecting consumers. Its responsibilities include establishing mandatory safety standards for consumer products, conducting investigations (with subpoena power), and taking action to prevent injuries related to consumer goods. This decision reinforces the importance of independent oversight within government agencies and sets a precedent concerning the limits of presidential power in removing agency members.