William F. Gosnell v. Joseph A. Califano, Jr., Secretary of Health, Education & Welfare

The issue on appeal here is whether the Secretary’s decision not to reopen two of Gosnell’s prior applications for Social Security disability benefits is reviewable. The District Court assumed jurisdiction over the refusal to reopen, and granted summary judgment to Gosnell. Because the refusal to reopen was not subject to judicial review, this Court reverses the judgment of the District Court.

Gosnell injured his lower back in a 1963 auto accident. Prior to the mishap, he worked as a laborer for the National Cash Register Company. Except for a brief unsuccessful attempt to return to NCR one…