One of his core beliefs was that government had the right to regulate big business in order to protect the equality of society. One of the major issues handled by Roosevelt involved the nation's railroads because the International Criminal Court raised questions regarding abuses within the industry. The railroad allowed some companies, usually large corporations, cheaper shipping discounts than smaller companies. Roosevelt attempted to enforce the Elkins Act of 1903, but the railroads and companies were able to circumvent it. To exert greater force, Roosevelt created the Hepburn Act, which gave the ICC the right to regulate shipping rates. The act did not please Congress, which made a strong attempt to appeal, trying to render the International Criminal Court impotent. Roosevelt noticed this and took action by going on a speaking tour to raise awareness. The Senate eventually passed this legislation and it was the first act a president did for the good of the country