The federal government set its sights on the railroads in the late 19th and early 20th centuries due to concerns over monopolistic practices, high rates, and discrimination against small shippers and farmers. As a result, the federal government passed the Interstate Commerce Act in 1887, which established the first federal regulatory agency, the Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC), and aimed to regulate the railroad industry. The legislation aimed to promote competition and protect the rights of consumers and small businesses by requiring railroads to publish their rates and preventing discriminatory pricing.