Recalled Brake Cleaner

In 2004, the US Consumer Product Safety Commission issued a recall of certain 13-ounce cans of brake cleaner (Release # 05-037). The hazard? "The affected aerosol cans contain a defective spray valve that might stick when depressed, possibly emptying the can's flammable contents."

Okay, the cleaner was not recalled because it's flammable; it was recalled because the button might stick when you push it and the stuff inside might spray out. Isn't that what it's supposed to do? Isn't that why you pushed the button in the first place?

Just to put this hazard in perspective, out of 2.8 MILLION cans, there were NINE complaints about the valve sticking. One person managed to spray it in his eye. Gee, you think maybe he pointed it at his own eye? Maybe aerosol cans should have a mandated warning label: DO NOT SPRAY IN YOUR EYES. Nah. Probably wouldn't help.

No Ball in the Street

St. Anthony, Idaho has an ordinance (10.28.010) against playing ball in the street. The actual wording is, "It is unlawful for any person to play ball or throw any ball to and/or from any public thoroughfare in the city."

This is the sort of ordinance that lends itself to all kinds of silly interpretations. Some people might say that if you find a ball in the street in St. Anthony, it is illegal to throw it back into your yard. That may be what the words technically mean, but it is certainly not the intent. The language sounds silly enough as is, so why use a stretched interpretation?

Alcohol Sales - As Silly as it Looks?

In Massachusetts, § 138:33 of the General Code prohibits the sale of alcohol on Sunday mornings, election days, and a few other specific days. I understand Christmas Day being included. I do not understand the rationale behind "or on the day following when Christmas occurs on a Sunday."

If Christmas is on a Sunday, why should anyone care about alcohol sales on the next day?

Improper Disposal of Human Waste

In Oregon, there is a crime called "Improper disposal of human waste." (Or. Stat. § 811.172) It is a crime if someone operating or riding in a motor vehicle "throws, puts or otherwise leaves a container of urine or other human waste on or beside the highway."

So if you are driving through Oregon and your little one has to go, make sure that you do not leave the cup he used. I suppose someone was too offended by all this to just call it littering. After all, there is a maximum fine of $250 for violating this law.

Milk Quality?

Ansonia, Connecticut, has an ordinance (15-7) which states that, "All milk, cream, skim milk or buttermilk produced, sold or offered for sale in the city shall be of the standard quality prescribed by the general statutes and the rules and regulations of the milk regulation board of this state and the provisions of this chapter."

So, did Ansonia have a problem with dairies dumping low-quality milk in their town? The ordinance is from 1928, so I'd like to think that it is no longer an issue . . .

Minor Standards of Behavior

In Kuna, Idaho, it is unlawful for anyone under age 18 to, among other things, willfully associate "with thieves, or vicious or immoral persons, or [use] vile, obscene, vulgar or indecent language, or [be] guilty of immoral conduct in any public place." (Kuna Ordinances 10-2-2)

You can be penalized with 30 days in jail and $100 fine for using indecent language in Kuna, but only if you are under 18. Can's you picture the conversation when a police officer stops a young person? "Cussing, huh? Let me see your license." Examines driver license. "Okay, you're old enough to use that kind of language."

No Free Food

In Atchison, Kansas, Section 3-5 of the Municipal Code prohibits the distribution of free samples of food or drugs. Finally! We have proof of the old saying, "there's no free lunch."

Actually, this ordinance further prohibits distribution of "any sample of merchandise whatsoever, capable or possible of being taken or eaten or swallowed by any person whereby sickness or death might ensue." So in Atchison, there's no keychains, baby flashlights, or other small freebies?

Skateboards

Hemet, California, has a couple of interesting skateboard regulations (Sections 53-16, 53-17). First, the definition of a skateboard includes: "skateboards, roller skates, inline skates, rollerblades, coasters, scooters, and toy vehicles." Remember, this is the law. Common sense need not be applicable. Why didn't they just say the law applies to roller skates, etc., rather than come up with a foolish definition?

Then, if you ride your skateboard in the street or on the sidewalk, you must yield the right-of-way to "all pedestrians, animals, wheelchairs, and motor vehicles." So, if you are skating down the street and a dog walks out in front of you, you have to get out of the dog's way?

No Hiding in a Restaurant

In Preston, Idaho, a city ordinance (5.28.010) states that restaurant owners "must remove all blinds, screens, booths or other obstructions which would interfere with the free inspection of such establishments by passersby."

Picture yourself and a friend going to a restaurant for lunch. "We'll have a booth, please. Oh, no booths? They're illegal? Okay, then we'll sit by the window. Can you pull the blinds? There's an awful glare over here. No blinds? They're illegal, too?" Is that about the time you decide to go home for lunch?

Keep Those Streets Clean

Vicksburg, Mississippi, has an ordinance that says: "No person shall allow oil or gasoline of any character to be dropped from automobiles, tanks, or other vehicles or sources on any of the streets of the city paved with asphalt or like material." (Code Section 20-30)

Sounds like they are prohibiting my second car from being in their town, and surely "tanks" does not mean the military vehicles with the big guns, right?

Apparently it is okay for your car to spew oil all over a gravel or dirt road, just so long as it is not asphalt or "like material." Speaking of which, does "or like material" mean that this does not apply to concrete or brick streets? And do bridges count?

Keep Drive-Ins Peaceful

Abilene, Texas, has the folowing ordinance:

"Sec. 20-55. Racing motor, blowing horn or causing other disturbance with motor vehicle.
No person on the premises of a drive-in restaurant shall race the motor of any motor vehicle, needlessly bring to a sudden start or stop any motor vehicle, blow any horn of any motor vehicle or cause to be made any other loud or unseemly noise, nuisance or disturbances whereby the quiet and good order of the premises or neighborhood are disturbed.
(Code 1965, § 13-31)"

Please, let's have no unseemly screeching stops that will disturb the quiet and good order at the Sonic.

Molesting Females in West Virginia

An ordinance in Bluefield, West Virginia is worded interestingly enough to simply quote, with no commentary.

"Sec. 14-26. Molesting females.
It shall be unlawful for any male person to make improper advances or indecent remarks or impertinently seek to attract the attention of any female person upon the streets or in public places.
(Code 1958, Part 7, Art. 23, § 4; Ord. of 9-22-64)"

Look Away, Dixie Land

Mississippi law still makes desecration of a Confederate flag a crime. (Miss. Code Ann., Sec. 97-7-39)

This may still be on the books, but the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that such laws are unenforceable under the First Amendment. Old times there may not be forgotten, but some might as well be.

Loitering Near a Funeral?

§ 272:42A of the general laws of Massachusetts is designed to outlaw disturbing a funeral. Good idea, right? The language used also prohibits "loitering" within five hundred feet of a building where a funeral is being held. You can face a fine of up to $1000 or up to a year in prison or both for violating this law.

Do I think the penalty is appropriate for people who picket or otherwise intentionally disturb a funeral? Absolutely! Do I think this is appropriate for someone who loiters too close? About as much as I think someone would actually be arrested and prosecuted for loitering too close to a funeral.

Protecting Dead Animals

Warning: Some people will not think this is silly at all; others will shake their heads in disbelief. Like Fox News, I'll report, you decide.

According to California law (Cal. Educ. Code § 32255.1), "any pupil with a moral objection to dissecting or otherwise harming or destroying animals, or any parts thereof," may be allowed to use an alternate form of instruction that does not involve damaging the (presumably) already-dead animal.

Many a student may have objected to dissecting a frog in school, but I've never heard of one that objected on moral grounds.

No Minors in Pool Halls

Minors under 19 years old are not permitted to enter pool halls in Preston, Idaho (Ordinances Section 9.76.010). Section 9.76.030 states that "It is unlawful for any minor under the age of twenty (20) years within the city to resort to, or frequent any pool hall, within the city."

So, 18 or under cannot even enter a pool hall, and 19-year-olds cannot resort to or frequent one. What exactly does it mean to "resort to" a pool hall? And how do they determine what constitutes frequenting a pool hall? Once a week? Every other day? And who's supposed to keep track of every 19-year-old that comes in?

Cross-Dressers Beware

In Baker, Montana, it is a crime for a man to appear in public wearing women's clothing. (Ordinance 9.32.040).

Just to be fair, the ordinance does make it a crime to appear in public "in a dress not belonging to his or her sex," so a woman dressed like a man would be just as guilty.

Save Us From Helium Balloons

Bluefield, West Virginia, has an ordinance(Sec. 14-45) prohibiting the release of five or more helium balloons in a twenty-four hour period by one person or a group of people. You'd better tie that string on tight if your baby has ballons in Bluefield! The penalty is a fine of NOT LESS THAN $50, nor more than $500.

Protecting Inmates from Snowballs

In Augusta, Maine, you may not throw a snowball at a house with the intent to "disturb the inmates thereof." (Ordinances Sec. 13-19) Odd choice of words. I hope it was not someone's idea of an insult to the residents of Augusta!

(FYI - the actual wording of this section is as follows: "No person shall throw any dirt, stones, bricks, snowballs or any other substance against any dwelling house or other private or public building, with intention to injure the same, or to disturb the inmates thereof, nor shall any person be present, aiding and abetting the same." - so you can't help someone throw snowballs at a house, either, unless there is no intent to cause damage or bother "the inmates.")

Fixing a Dumb Problem in California

According to the Los Angeles Times (11/02/10), the State of California is removing a number of ATMs and point-of-sale card readers from the system that accepts EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) cards. These are debit cards given to welfare recipients instead of the old fashioned welfare check and food stamps. They reduce the stigma attached to welfare, and provide tracking information to the government.

So why are businesses and ATMs being removed from the network? Let's see, more than $16,000 has been accessed from cruise ships, and nearly $12 Million has been accessesed from Las Vegas. This money is for the poor to feed, clothe, and house themselves. So where can the cards no longer be used? Medical marijuana shops, psychics, massage parlors, bail bond establishments, bingo halls, gun shops, bars, race tracks, smoking shops, tattoo parlors, and on cruise ships. (Casinos and poker rooms were taken out of the system in June.)

So why were these places allowed to dispense cash or services for welfare recipients in the first place?

No Keg at Home?

Bannock County, Idaho Ordinances of 1988-4 § 1 (Codified as 5.08.020), says that it is unlawful to possess a keg of beer without a permit from the Sheriff. There are a few exceptions, one of which is "other lawful purposes within Bannock County." I wonder if wanting to drink the beer would be considered an "other lawful purpose."

It only applies to kegs of 7-1/2 gallons or larger, so my presumption is that this is a way to regulate bars in the county. Lawyers must have been involved, because the next section says that the court can infer that a keg contains beer if the witnesses say it contains beer or if it is labeled as beer. Okay, so if there's a big keg with a Miller label on it, somebody felt they should authorize a judge to infer that it contains beer?

Alcohol Sales - Not as Silly as it Looks

In Massachusetts, § 138:33B of the General Code states that towns may authorize the sale of alcoholic beverages between 11 a.m. and 12 noon "on Sundays, the last Monday in May and on Christmas day or on the day following when said day occurs on Sunday."

Taken by itself, out of context, this seems like an incredibly silly law. Sale of alcohol for one hour? Taken in context, this is not really a silly law. Massachusetts statutes basically prohibit the sale of hooch on Sunday mornings or the mornings of the other listed days. So this is really just an exception that allows localities to extend their hours on specific days.

Just goes to show that a silly-sounding law may make perfect sense when taken in context.

No Snowballs at Trees

In Bensalem Township, Pennsylvania, it is unlawful to throw a snowball at a tree. Huh????

The actual language of Code Section 160-1, Prohibited Acts, states: "(8) To throw any stone, snowball or any other object upon or at any vehicle, building, tree or other public or private property . . ."

Maybe Bensalem has unusually hard snow . . .

Begging Permit?

In Bluefield, West Virginia, begging is unlawful as an occupation unless you get a permit to solicit donations. (Code Section 14-7) The next section of the municipal code (14-8) provides, however, that this does not apply to "any handicapped person who followed the occupation of beginning(sic) in the city regularly and continually prior to April 14, 1959."

These ordinances were passed in 1961, and left a few questions. I wonder who the handicapped beggar was that the city fathers wanted to protect? Besides, how much does a begging permit cost? Is a beggar considered a professional fund raiser? What if he's not good at it? Is he an amateur beggar if he doesn't actually get any donations? He would still need a permit, since he is soliciting donations, but probably would not have the money for a permit. So is he violating the law if he begs for the money to buy a begging permit? Enquiring minds . . . probably couldn't care much less, truth be told.

No Crazy Drunks in our Town

In Brentwood, Tennessee, a permitee can lose his license to sell beer if he allows beer to be sold to an insane person. (Brentwood Code of Ordinances Sec. 6-62) These days, how could you tell?

Oh, this ordinance also requires separate "sanitary toilet facilities" for men and women. Did Brentwood have a problem at one time with unisex bathrooms? This ordinance was passed in 1993, so there may have been someone back then who opened a bar with a regular bathroom, instead of two separately-designated bathrooms.

Don't Look!!!

In Corinth, Mississippi, you may not be a spectator at any event in which a wild animal is wrestled. (Ordinances Sec. 6-14)

More Urinating Prohibitions

According to the Baker, Montana, Code Sections 9.76.010 & .020, "It is unlawful for any person to urinate in any of the streets, avenues, alleys, sidewalks and other outdoor areas and at any place not designated as a restroom within the city. "

So don't let your children "go" in the backyard. The penalty is a fine of from $25 to $500, and up to ten days in the city jail, or both.

Is This Really Needed?

According to the Bluefield, West Virginia Code of Ordinances (Sec. 9-5), "No person shall expectorate or urinate upon another person or upon any sidewalk or other public property, or in or upon any taxicab or other public vehicle carrying passengers for hire."

These are certainly bad things, but what went on in Bluefield for the municipality (in 1958) to decide there had to be a law specifically outlawing this behavior?

More Nuisances

In Hemet, California, a LONG list of items is declared to be a public nuisance, most of which make sense. One or two seem to take the concept a bit far, however. Section 30-32 of the Code of Ordinances designates nuisances, including parking lots maintained so as to become unsightly (#10), an accumulation of dirt in landscaped areas (#11), "unsound" skateboard ramps (#16), and a building which may endanger the health of its residents due to "filthy tenants." (#30)

Distribution of Obscene Materials

In Arkansas, it is a misdemeanor to possess obscene material (Ark. Stat. § 5-68-405). Distribution of obscene material, on the other hand, is a felony. Not only that, but simply telling someone "when, where, how, or from whom or by what means any of these things can be purchased or obtained" is also a felony, under the same statute.

So if you know of a company that sells obscene materials, don't you dare tell anyone in Arkansas!

Make Sure Your Magazines are Complete

In Illinois, you may not sell a newspaper, magazine, or other periodical if the cover or the title page has been removed (§ 720 ILCS 380/1), "except in bulk as waste paper."

Good thing you don't have to keep your newspapers and magazines intact to sell them as waste. Some of them are already trash to start with.

No Billiards on Sunday

In Corinth, Mississippi, city ordinance section 5-28 prohibits operation of a poolroom or billiard room on Sunday.

More Vagrants

Section 9.44.010 of Baker, Montana's Code of Ordinances contains, among others, these people defined as vagrants: ". . . every idle and dissolute person who wanders about the streets at late or unusual hours of the night, . . . every person who habitually misspends his time by frequenting . . . poolrooms, . . . every lewd and dissolute female person who shall [in public] conduct or behave themselves in an improper, drunken, profane or obscene manner," and every person carrying a concealed weapon.

All of them vagrants! I suppose an upstanding woman, excuse me, female person, can behave in a profane manner and not be considered a vagrant?

More Dancehall Regulations

In Hemet, California dancehalls, city ordinances section 6-23 states, "Lighting shall be maintained in the dance area at any time an establishment is open to the public so any individual with normal sight can clearly see and identify any person across the dance floor area."

So don't you dare turn those lights down low for that romantic slow song!

No Outhouses

In Baker, Montana, the city ordinances forbid having a "outdoor privy or outhouse." Fortunately, there is an exception for houses that do not have sewer service in the street or alley adjoining the property. (Code of Ordinances Chapter 9.12)

Are these people not familiar with the concept of septic tanks?

Poolroom Construction

In Corinth, Mississippi, a billiards room must be considered a den of iniquity. Ordinances Section 5-26 provides that any poolroom must be on the first floor of a building. Not only that, but it must be "constructed and arranged that any person on the sidewalk outside such room can see without obstruction throughout the same; and no curtains, drapes or any other means shall be used to obscure vision into such room."

Guess they want to make sure than anyone base enough to enter a poolroom should be exposed! Funny that liquor stores are not required to be set up so that anyone walking past can see who is in one.

Dude, Where Are My Keys????

In Hemet, California, city ordinance Sec. 78-105 provides that you cannot leave your car "unattended on any street, alley, used car lot or unattended parking lot without first stopping the engine and removing and taking the ignition key from the vehicle." Okay, so you can't go to the Post Office and legally leave your car with the motor running while you check your mail. It may be dumb, but most places don't outlaw dumb.

The ordinance goes on to provide that "Whenever any police officer shall find any such motor vehicle standing in violation of this section, such police officer is authorized to remove the keys therefrom and deliver the keys to the police station." So if you forget and leave your keys in the ignition, and then you can't find them later, they might be at the police station. Of course, it's only natural for you to look for lost keys at the police station, right?

Sexual Assault of an Animal?

In Oregon, the law prohibits the sexual assault of an animal "or animal carcass." (Ore. Stat. § 167.333) I don't want to know what prompted their legislature to believe this law was needed.

Maui Gasoline Limit

Say you run out of gas, and the car stops partially on the highway or sidewalk. Someone brings gasoline to you, either a good Samaritan or a gas station employee who charges you an exhorbitant amount. Either way, in Maui County, they cannot bring you more than two gallons. (Ordinances Sec. 8.12.030)

Opium Dens in Montana

In Baker, Montana, it is a misdemeanor to operate an opium den. (Code of Ordinances Sec. 9.28.010). Guess the state laws aren't tough enough for them? Or maybe there was no such state law in 1915, when this ordinance was passed. It's also a misdemeanor to visit any place where opium is sold or given away with the intent to smoke it. So put that in your pipe and . . . well, you know.

Books and Massages Don't Mix (Apparently)

In Bullhead City, Arizona, you may not operate a "massage establishment" in a bookstore. (Ord. 93-629 § 1)

I understand paranoia that massage parlors may be a front for prostitution, but are these city leaders afraid that massage parlors may encourage people to read?

No Nukes in Colorado

In Colorado, it is illegal to possess a nuclear weapon. (Colo. Stat. § 18-12-109)

Jane Doe v. An Egg

In Louisiana, an in vitro fertilized ovum may sue and be sued. (La. Civil Code § 9:124)

Michigan: Disturb Church and Go to the Preacher's Office!

In Michigan, "judges, mayors, and aldermen," when they view someone disturbing church services, may "order the offender into the custody of . . . any official member of the church or society so assembled or disturbed, for safe keeping," until he makes bail or has trial. (Mich. Stat. § 752.528)

No Laser Pointers for Minors

In California, you may not sell a laser pointer to anyone under 18 who is not accompanied by an adult. (Ca. Penal Code § 417.27)

Gee, I'd hate to be accused of selling office supplies to underage persons.

Cemetary for Locals Only

In Augusta, Maine, cemetery plots may only be sold to residents or their heirs. (Augusta Ord. Sec. 6.5-380) So if you plan to be buried here, you need to move here while you are still alive.

No Near Beer to Minors in Michigan

In Michigan, you may not sell or give a minor a "cereal beverage" that has ANY alcohol at all - even a fraction of a percent - if it is sold under a name like "near beer," "which is capable of conveying the impression to the purchaser that the beverage has an alcoholic content." (Mich. Stat. Ann. § 750.28)

So if it is branded so that someone might think it contains alcohol, you can't sell it to the kids. After all, they may think they get drunk off of it!

No Pinball in Maui

In Maui County, Hawaii, minors are not allowed to play pinball, "or to loiter or linger about" a pinball machine. (Maui County Code Sec. 9.12.010)

More Dancing Issues!!

In Augusta, Maine, it is unlawful to dim the lights of a dance hall during a dance. (Augusta, Maine Code 1970, § 3-24; Ord. No. 244, 1-6-92)

Illinois Dance Studios

In Illinois, contracts with dance studios may not be for more than one year. (§ 815 ILCS 610/7)

Wipe Your Feet Before Stepping on the Sidewalk!

In Brentwood, Tennessee, it is unlawful to track mud on the sidewalk. (Ord. Sec. 58-5)

The actual ordinance states: "It shall be unlawful for any person to litter, place, throw, track or allow to fall or erode onto any street, alley, or sidewalk any refuse, gravel, glass, tacks, dirt, mud or other objects or materials which are unsightly or which obstruct or tend to limit or interfere with the use of such public ways and places for their intended purposes."

Rather broadly worded, eh?

Note from your Parents?

In Indiana, it is a misdemeanor for someone holding a permit to sell alcohol to let a minor hang around, if the permit holder has received a written note from one of the child's parents saying "that the person is in fact a minor and directing that he be excluded from the licensed premises." (Ind. Code § 7.1-5-7-14)

I always knew a note from Mom was powerful, but never realized you could go to jail for ignoring it!

Nevada Criminals Watch Out!

In Winnemucca, Nevada, it is unlawful for a fugitive from justice to possess a stun gun. (Ord. Sec. 9.24.010)

I'm sure that ordinance prevents many fugitives from carrying stun guns. The citizens of Winnemucca can breathe easy.

Dancing in Maine

In Augusta, Maine, you must notify the police chief 48 hours in advance before you may hold a dance. (Code 1970, § 3-1; Ord. No. 244, 1-6-92)

Silly Law: No Slingshots in the Park

In Corinth, Mississippi, it is illegal to possess a slingshot in a public park. Not only that, but the penalty is up to a year in the county jail or a fine of up to $1,000, or both. The crime and penalty are the same for a slingshot as for a shotgun, brass knuckles, or a switchblade knife. (Corinth Ordinances Sec. 21-22)

Sure. Having a slingshot in your back pocket is certainly just as bad as waving around a shotgun, or having a pistol in your pocket, right?

More Spitting Rules

In Bullhead City, Arizona, it is unlawful for a person to spit in a city park. (City Code Sec. 9.08.090)

The complete code section states: "It is unlawful for any person to spit upon any of the public sidewalks or crosswalks in the city or upon any public path, byway or highway or in or on any public grounds or park in the city, or upon the floor or interior of any public building in the city."

Keep Maui Nuke-Free

Under Section 8.28.050 of the Maui County, Hawaii Code of Ordinances, it is unlawful to build nuclear weapons in the county. You can't even build them as a hobby.

Dumb Law of the Day: Don't Leave the State to Watch Boxing

Under Section 414 of the California Penal Code, it is a crime in California to leave the state to watch a professional boxing match.

No Dumpster Diving in Brentwood

The Brentwood, Tennessee Code of Ordinances Sec. 54-4 states:

"No unauthorized person shall uncover, rifle, pilfer, dig into, turn over or in any other manner disturb or use any refuse container belonging to another. This section shall not be construed to prohibit the use of public refuse containers for their intended purpose."

So leave your neighbor's trash alone, even if he is throwing away that signed Jimmy Hendrix poster or collection of ivory elephants you always loved.

No Spitting on the Sidewalk

The Hemet, California Code of Ordinances, Sec. 46-7:

"It is unlawful for any person in the city to spit or expectorate on the floor, walls or stairs of any public building, place of worship, place of amusement or public vehicle or upon any public sidewalk within the city."

So there really is a town where it is illegal to spit on the sidewalk.

Signage Issues in Indiana

In Indiana, unless it is in connection with "sporting event, festival, or holiday held in Indiana," you may not have a sign within 200 feet of a liquor store advertising an alcoholic beverage by brand name. (Ind. Code § 7.1-5-2-7)

We'd hate to have a store advertising what they sell, right? I suppose you could have a big sign atop a liquor store advertising "VODKA," so long as it does not mention a brand.

Keep Your Animals Out of the Cemetery!

In Michigan, if you allow your domestic animals or fowl to run free, it is a crime to allow them to enter a cemetery. (Mich Stat. Ann. § 750.67)

I guess none of those sob stories about a dog sitting at his master's grave took place in Michigan.

Bingo in Hemet!

In Hemet, California, there are three groups that are allowed to get a permit to play bingo: a nonprofit charitable organization (not unusual), a senior citizens organization (makes sense), and a mobile home park association (huh?). (Sec. 18-123 of the Hemet City Code)

No Silly Law, Just Dumb People as the Reason For It

Wyoming passed the "Commonsense Consumption Act" (Wis. Stat. § 11-47-101 through -103), which basically states that you cannot sue McDonald's for making you fat.

It provides that there is no civil liability to manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, etc., of food products for the long-term consumption of food products causing obesity, or causing conditions related to obesity (such as heart problems, high cholesterol, etc.)

I applaud Wisconsin for this law, but the reason the law exists - the idea that people would sue a fast food restaurant for making them fat when they routinely eat their food - is stupid. It also is a legitimate concern, because stupid people can find and hire lawyers to take this kind of case.

Park Like We Say . . . Or Not

Brentwood, Tennessee has an interesting parking ordinance. Ordinance Sec. 66-287(a) states that you shall not leave a car unattended on a street without setting the brake, turning the car off, removing the ignition key, and "turning the front wheels of such vehicle toward the nearest curb or gutter of the street."

Subsection (b) of the same ordinance states that "every vehicle parked upon a street within the city shall be so parked that its right wheels are approximately parallel to and within 18 inches of the right edge or curb of the street."

So do what we say, not what we say?

No teasing!

In Shelby County, Tennessee (Memphis area), it is unlawful to tease an animal (Ord. No. 82, § 10, 11-19-90; Ord. No. 204, § 9, 9-14-98).

Living in a Bawdy House

In California (Ca. Penal Code § 315), it is a crime to "willfully reside" in "a house of ill-fame . . . , resorted to for the purposes of prostitution or lewdness."

So make sure that you don't rent a room in a "house of ill-fame."

No Sunday Hunting in Alabama

According to Alabama Statute § 13A-12-1, shooting or hunting is illegal on Sunday. The penalty is a fine of $10 - $100, AND up to three months of hard labor in the county jail. It is in the code chapter entitled "OFFENSES AGAINST PUBLIC HEALTH AND MORALS."

Think this is enforced?

No Silly Law, Just a Dumb Result

According to an article in Governing about the pros and cons of across-the-board cuts to government agencies, such cuts "could just drive greater inefficiency. Desperate to generate savings quickly . . . California furloughed some 200,000 employees for up to three days each month, including the 5,300 employees of the state's tax collection agency who audit and collect state taxes. According to a report from the California Senate Office of Oversight and Outcomes, California 'lost $7.15 for every dollar saved through furloughs' through missed tax revenues."

(The report can be found here )

Stopping Discrimination Against Epileptics?

In Utah, Statute § 30-1-2.1 (Enacted in 1963) provides that "All marriages, otherwise valid and legal, contracted prior to the effective date of this act, to which either party was subject to chronic epileptic fits and who had not been sterilized, as provided by law, are hereby validated and legalized in all respects as though such marriages had been duly and legally contracted in the first instance."

So prior to 1963, epileptics were supposed to be sterilized before they could marry?

Do Not Disturb Church Services in Michigan

Michigan Statutes § 752.527 provides the following duty:

"It shall be the duty of all sheriffs, and their deputies, coroners, marshals, constables, and other peace officers, all presiding elders, and ministers of the gospel, deacons, stewards and official members of any church or religious society, who may be present at the meeting of any assembly for religious worship, which shall be interrupted or disturbed in the manner prohibited, on sight to apprehend the offender, and take him or her before the district or municipal court of the judicial district or municipality, to be proceeded against according to law."

So, when it comes to the crime of disturbing a worship service, preachers, priests, rabbis, imams, elders, deacons, and church officials have arrest authority. Not just authority, they have a statutory duty to make the arrest! Sounds like religious organizations in Michigan need a sergeant at arms!

Utah Strip Clubs

In Utah, strip clubs are required to keep the entrance doors unlocked. (Utah Stat. § 32A-1-603(3)(b)(ii))

Outdated Law from the Old South

Mississippi Code Section 37-113-31, dating from 1940, authorizes "a 4-H Club demonstration camp for Negro 4-H Club members" in Madison County. It goes on to say that when 4-H is not using it, "this facility may be rented to other Negro organizations for educational and recreational use only."

Giving the Devil his due, the previous section (37-113-29) has identical language for another 4-H camp in Panola County, with the exception being one contains the word "Negro" and the other does not. Still on the books!

Odd Law of the Day: No Leading Animals in Wisconsin

According to Wisconsin's Criminal Code (§ 951.04), "No person shall lead any animal upon a highway from a motor vehicle or from a trailer or semitrailer drawn by a motor vehicle."

So you cannot hitch up your horse to your tractor and drive down the road with the horse walking or trotting behind? How many people try to lead an animal on the highway from a moving vehicle, anyway?

No Canned Beverages with Removable Caps

In Colorado, "No person shall sell or offer for sale at retail . . . any metal beverage container with a detachable opening device designed to detach from the beverage container when a user opens the beverage container in a manner reasonably calculated to gain access to its contents." (Colo. Stat. § 18-13-113)

So the aluminum Coca-Cola bottles are apparently illegal in Colorado.

Profanely Cursing

In West Virginia, (W. Va. Code § 61-8-15) the law states: "If any person arrived at the age of discretion profanely curse or swear or get drunk in public, he shall be fined by a justice one dollar for each offense."

So, the same penalty for swearing and drunk in public? And it's okay to curse someone in public, as long as you do not profanely curse them?

No Massages Behind Locked Doors

In Baldwin County, Alabama (Ala. Code § 45-2-40.07), "No masseur, masseuse, or other employee or attendant in any massage parlor shall apply or administer any massage or other treatment to any person behind locked doors."

My guess is that this was an attempt at an anti-prostitution law, but it comes across more as people who are afraid that someone else might be relaxing.

Close the Fence!

Wyoming Code § 6-9-202 states, in its entirety: "A person is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not more than seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00) if he opens and neglects to close a gate or replace bars in a fence which crosses a private road or a river, stream or ditch."

No Dog-Breeding for Felons

In Illinois, § 720 ILCS 5/12-36 is entitled, "Possession of unsterilized or vicious dogs by felons prohibited." A person convicted of "a forcible felony," various drug-related offenses, or certain other felonies may not have "an unspayed or unneutered dog or puppy older than 12 weeks of age."

If you are a convicted drug dealer, do not despair. The prohibition only lasts for 10 years after release from prison.

Disrupting Church

In Michigan, it is illegal to "promote, aid, or be engaged in any racing of any animals" within 2 miles of a worship service in progress. (Mich. Rev. Stat. § 752.525)

Illegal Possession of a Slingshot

In Nome, Alaska, "No person shall have in his or her physical possession, nor shall discharge, an airgun, bow and arrow, or slingshot within the city," according to Ordinance O-93-6-6.

There are exceptions. This does not apply to "possession or discharging in authorized locations," and authorized locations means "occupied residences, operational vehicles, premises in which such devices are sold or displayed, and facilities designed for indoor charges." So you cannot walk down the street with a slingshot, but you can shoot a bow and arrow or bb gun in your house.

There is also an exception when you are "transporting along a direct course between authorized locations, provided the device is not loaded while en route." So be sure that your bow and arrow is not loaded if you are carrying it in your car to an authorized location!

No Water Yo-yos

In Illinois, § 720 ILCS 5/12-21.7 states, "It is unlawful to sell a yo-yo waterball in this State." The penalty is a fine of $1,001.

No Malt Liquor on Credit in Wyoming

In Wyoming, malt liquor may not be sold to a retailer on credit. (Wy. Stat. § 12-5-402(b)) Why malt liquor only, and not beer, wine, or liquor? Your guess is as good as mine.

The actual language of the statute is:
"No sale or delivery of malt beverages shall be made by a wholesaler to any licensee except for payment in full made at the time of or prior to delivery, and a licensee shall not accept or receive delivery of malt beverages except when payment is made at or prior to delivery."

No Marbles in the Street

In Vicksburg, Mississippi, it is a violation of city ordinance Sec. 17-41 to play marbles, tops, or ball in the street "unless same is authorized in an official play street."

What the heck is "an official play street?"

Got Divorced? Stay Apart!

In Michigan, a statute specifically states that if a couple gets a divorce and then lives together, they are subject to all the penalties for adultery. (Mich. Stat. § 750.32)

This law was originally passed in 1931. That makes me wonder if there might have been a Detroit couple in the Roaring 20's that scandalized the area.

Achromatic Sex Businesses

In Dallas, Texas, a sexually-oriented business may only have the exterior painted "a single achromatic color." (Ord. Nos. 23137; 24440;
24699) This is defined as "colorless or lacking in saturation or hue. The term includes, but is not limited to, grays, tans, and light earth tones. The term does not include white, black, or any bold coloration that attracts attention." (Ord. Nos. 19196; 19377; 20291; 20552; 21838; 23137;
24440; 24699; 25296)

So a sexually-oriented business is not allowed to have white exterior walls, because that would attract attention?

Presidential Holidays

In Nevada, "any day that may be appointed by the President of the United States for public fast, thanksgiving or as a legal holiday except for any Presidential appointment of the fourth Monday in October as Veterans' Day" is an official state holiday. (Nev. Rev. Stat. § 236.015)

So the only exception to a Presidentially-declared holiday is if the President designates the fourth Monday in October as Veterans' Day? Why?

Raiding Orchards in Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, the penalty for entering someone else's land to damage or steal the vegetation or produce is imprisonment for up to six months or a fine of not more than $500. No silliness there, eh? Well, if the offense is committed on a Sunday, there are minimums: "The imprisonment shall not be for less than five days nor the fine less than five dollars." (Mass. Gen. Laws § 266:117)

No Skinny-Dipping . . . During Daylight Hours

In Vicksburg, Mississippi, public skinny-dipping may not specifically be prohibited at night, but it is during the day. Here is the city ordinance:

"Sec. 17-29.  Same--Nude bathing in public.
It shall be unlawful in the daytime for any person to swim or bathe in a nude condition in any canal, lake, river, or waters in or contiguous to the city, thereby exposing his person, or any part thereof to public view.
(Code 1959, § 14-33)"

Don't Taunt Someone for Refusing to Duel

In West Virginia, it is a misdemeanor to taunt someone "for not fighting a duel, or for not sending or accepting a challenge." (W. Va. Code § 61-2-24) Note that it it only a criminal offense if you put the taunts in writing; apparently, you are free to verbally abuse someone all you wish for refusing your challenge.

Watch Out for Strolling Paupers!

Mississippi Code Section 43-31-27 says, in part, "The members of the board of supervisors shall prevent the poor from strolling from one district to another."

The statute goes on to say that if a poor person on the county dole strolls to another county, any member of the board of supervisors is authorized to order a constable to bring him back. So have many counties run a shortage of paupers, so that the county supervisors need to make sure that other counties don't steal theirs?

Sometimes it's all in the Wording

Laws against indecent exposure are important, but sometimes the wording of them gets a little . . . peculiar. Take, for example, California Penal Code Section 314:

"Every person who willfully and lewdly . . .exposes his person . . . where there are present other persons to be offended or annoyed thereby . . ." So it is a crime to willfully and lewdly expose yourself to another person and annoy him or her thereby.

Also, if you willfully or lewdly exhibit yourself in a manner that "is adapted to excite to vicious or lewd thoughts or acts" you also have committed a crime. I wonder if a fat man wearing a speedo on the beach would qualify, since it might be willful and lewd, and may excite someone to think about violence against him.

Weird Laws: No Fishing with Guns in Wyoming

In Wyoming, fishing with guns is forbidden. The actual wording of Wyoming Statute § 23-3-201(d) is "No person shall take, wound or destroy any fish of Wyoming with a firearm of any kind or nature."

Llama Activities?

In Georgia, there is a warning sign required to be posted at "llama activities," and the same warning has to be put into contracts for "llama activities." (Ga. Code Ann. § 4-12-5) It says:

"WARNING Under Georgia law, a llama activity sponsor or llama professional is not liable for an injury to or the death of a participant in llama activities resulting from the inherent risks of llama activities, pursuant to Chapter 12 of Title 4 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated."

If you do not post this notice, a llama professional can be liable for injury or death of a participant in llama activies. It does not take a terribly warped mind to consider just what the "llama activites" are.

No Begging for Drinks in California

In California it is unlawful for anyone to loiter in a bar to beg for people to buy him or her a drink. (Cal. Penal Code § 303a) It is considered an "Offense Against Good Morals."

Dallas Placards

How many times have we seen someone on television walking down the sidewalk, wearing a sign that says "Eat at Joe's," or something similar? Not in Dallas! Under Ord. Nos. 5304; 10372; and 22061, it is illegal to "to carry or hold by hand or otherwise, any billboard, showcard, placard or advertisement or sign of any description for the purpose of advertising" on streets, sidewalks, or any other public property.

The Government Can Gouge You?

Many (if not all) states, including Alabama, have laws outlawing usury, the charging of excessive interest rates. In Oxford, Alabama, the local development authority is exempt from state laws "governing usury or prescribing or limiting interest rates." (Ala. Code Sec. 45-8A-111.15)

So, while a banker could be indicted for charging too much interest, the government could charge whatever it wants when it makes a loan?

Does this Include Sleeping on the Job?

In Colorado, it is illegal to impersonate a public servant. (Col. Stat. § 18-8-113) It is also no defense that the office does not really exist, so it is still a crime to claim to be an inspector for the "Colorado Department of Lingerie Fit Inpections" or a taker of survey questionnaire taker for the "Colorado Department of Repetitive Redundancies."

Is There a Market For This?

In Georgia, "it shall be lawful to sell the tails of legally taken squirrels." (Ga. Code Ann. § 27-3-23)

And should I presume that there is (or was at one time) a market for squirrel tails in Georgia?

No Taxis on MSU Campus?

Miss. Code Ann. Sec. 37-113-39 prohibits taxis on the campus of "the Mississippi State University of Agriculture and Applied Science", unless the university issues a free license. The penalty is a fine of not more than $100 or by thirty days in jail or both.

Walkathon limits in Michigan

In Michigan you shall not "promote, conduct, or participate in any endurance contest known as a walkathon or similar endurance contest." (Mi. Stat. § 752.161) This does not apply if the event begins and ends on the same day or lasts a predetermined time less than 12 hours.

Has Michigan had a problem with walkathons lasting for days on end?

Ah, don't forget the penalty. Violations are punishable by a fine not to exceed $100, or up to 90 days in jail (I suppose to rest from the walkathon), or both. (Mi. Stat. § 752.162)

Apprenticing Your Children

In Louisiana, parents have "the right to bind their children as apprentices." (La. Civ. Code Book 1, Title 7, Chap. 5, § 1:220)

Many a parent might like to do that!

Pregnant Pig Protection

Sometimes a law is only silly because of where it is, and how it got there. In Florida it is illegal to confine a pregnant pig so that it cannot turn around freely.

Nice animal cruelty law, right? It's in Florida's CONSTITUTION. (Article X, Section 21) It was put there as a result of an initiative petition in 2002. That means that enough voters in Florida saw this as important enough to put on the ballot and vote it in as part of the state constitution!

California Boxing

In California, Cal. Penal Code § 4131/2 states, "Any person or persons holding, or conducting, or participating in, or present as a spectator, at any boxing exhibition held on Memorial Day, May 30, or on Sundays, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. . ."

Six months in the county jail for going to see a boxing match on Sunday?

How Often is Land Moved, Anyway?

According to Louisiana law (La. Civ. Code Sec.2:2-462), "Tracts of land, with their component parts, are immovables." So how often do people in Louisiana try to move a tract of land?

Laws Don't Keep up with Technology

Mississippi Code Sec. 45-11-37 requires exterior doors to public buildings "where people are wont to assemble" to open outward, for fire protection reasons.

What makes this silly? The law has not been updated, so TECHNICALLY buildings with sliding doors are illegal. This is one of those I cannot imagine anyone enforcing, but every business with sliding doors violates this law.

Leave Fifi at Home, Juneau?

In Juneau, Alaska, animals are not allowed in barbershops or hairdressing salons (Ordinances Sec. 36.25.010). So Fifi has to stay home while her mommy has her hair done. It is not mentioned in this ordinance, but I presume there is an exception for seeing-eye dogs.

Residency Requirement for Boxers

In Louisiana, you may not participate in a professional boxing match unless you have been in the city where the match will be held for at least three days before the contest. (La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 4:77)

No Alcoholic Candy in MA

In Massachusetts, it is illegal to sell candy containing a liquid or syrup containing more than one percent alcohol. (Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 270, §270:8)

Hide Your Car Collection in Colorado!

In Colorado, according to Colo. Rev. Stat. § 42-12-103, a car collector may store his cars on his own property, as long as they "are effectively screened from ordinary public view by means of a solid fence, trees, shrubbery, or other appropriate means." Okay, then you can collect cars, as long as they are out of sight.

So, if your car collection is hidden, why does the statute go on to say that "Such storage areas shall be kept free of weeds, trash, and other objectionable items." No one can see it, but you have to keep it clean and neat?

Potted Plants in Cemeteries

In Dallas, Texas, potted plants are allowed at cemeteries, but will be removed after 10 days. In addition, Christmas wreaths may remain on graves until January 31.

At least there is no order detailing what color flowers may be used, or how high the stems must be cut.

(Code 1950, § 10-41; Ord. No. 25690, § 14, 10-24-57; Code 1959, § 9-32;
Ord. No. 39758, § 10, 7-29-71)

Dumb Government Rulings: Another "Duh" Recall

How about a voluntary recall (Consumer Product Safety Commission release #09-220) of folding toy beach chairs? Build-A-Bear Workshop apparently sold these for about $8 US as folding beach chairs for stuffed animals. Eight injuries have been reported, and this is the hazard reported by the CPSC: “This toy chair legs can bruise, pinch or cut fingers if caught while folding.”

It was recalled because a child can pinch his or her fingers while folding up a toy folding chair? For many parents, this would be an opportunity to teach children about being careful. Who would report a pinched finger to the authorities? And, by the way, there were about 270,000 of these chairs sold in the US and Canada between March, 2001, and October, 2008, with eight pinches reported.

No Swimming in the Trinity River!

In Dallas, Texas, it is illegal to enter the water of a river, stream, or pond with the intent to "swim, bathe, wade or go in the water" (with exceptions) unless signs allowing it are posted by the Parks Department. (Ord. 14971)

Alabama Honey?

In Alabama, a product "which is in semblance of honey," regardless of whether or not it contains any honey, may not have the word "imitation" in its name. (Ala. Code § 2-11-122)

I could understand not using the word "honey" to describe a honey substitute, but forbidding the word "imitation?"

Sundays in Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, it is illegal to attend or participate in dancing, games, fairs, sports, plays, or other public diversion for which a fee is charged on Sunday unless the appropriate license has been obtained. (Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 136 § 2)

The peculiar part of this is that folk dancing and square dancing are exceptions. So unlicensed ballroom or disco dancing on Sunday is illegal, but unlicensed square or folk dancing on Sunday is legal.

Colorado Obscenity

Colorado (Rev. Stat. 18-7-101) law's definition of obscene "material" "does not include an actual three-dimensional obscene device." So vibrators designed for sexual stimulation are "obscene devices," not "obscene materials."

This is an important distinction, since the obscenity law (Colo. Rev. Stat. § 18-7-102) refers to promotion of obscenity or wholesale promotion of obscenity. The crime involves obscene "material," so I suppose you can be as raunchy as you wish with three-dimensional devices, so long as you are not using something aural or two-dimensional.

Government Dating?

In Illinois, the government is exempt from the laws regulating "dating referral services." (§ 815 ILCS 615/10)

So how many governmental entities are in the business of competing with e-harmony and the like anyway?

Florida - Which is Worse This Time?

According to Florida's sentencing guidelines (Fla. Stat. Sec. 921.0012), a lewd exhibition in the presence of an elderly person (level 5) is a more serious felony than battery on a person 65 years old or older (level 4). Yes, showing porn to an older person is apparently worse than beating him or her in the Sunshine State.

Oregon Air Bags

In Oregon, if you are not a motor vehicle dealer, automobile repair facility or certified dismantler, it is illegal to possess more than two (2) undeployed air bags that have been removed from a vehicle. (Or. Rev. Stat. § 167.824)

Michigan Navy

In Michigan, "all members of yacht clubs and other organizations formed for the pursuit of aquatic sports and pastimes" are subject to call up for the naval militia. (Mich. Stat. Ann. § 33.1) So I guess that includes members of a water polo team or a swim club?

Oregon - Molesting Predators?

In Oregon, it is illegal to molest a noxious or predatory animal killed in a government trap set out to control such animals. (Or. Stat. § 610.050)

Gambling and Cattle Don't Mix

In Massachusetts, you may not gamble within twelve hours of holding a cattle show, military muster, or public gathering. This prohibition extends for one mile, and the penalty is a forfeiture of not more than twenty dollars. (Mass. Gen. Laws § 271:6)

Porn Before Your Elders?

In Florida, it is a felony to commit a lewd or lascivious exhibition (such as exposing yourself) in the presence of an elderly person (Fla. Stat. Sec. 825.1025).

Weird Laws: Advertising as a Specialist

In Michigan, it is illegal to advertise that you are a specialist in diseases caused by masturbation. (Mich. Comp. Laws § 750.34)

Dancing in Louisiana?

In Louisiana, state law allows municipalities to place "matrons or policewomen" in dance halls. Why? According to La. Rev. Stat. § 4:361, "These matrons shall see that no lewd, vulgar, or suggestive dances are held, and that the costumes of persons dancing or performing in those places are proper."

As a side note, the law says that any municipality other than New Orleans may do this, and in New Orleans the police department may do this. I'm not sure what that says about city government in New Orleans. Like Fox News, "We report, you decide."

Alabama Massages

In Baldwin County, Alabama, you may not legally sleep in a massage parlor. (Ala. Stat. § 45-2-40.05)

Domino!

In Alabama, you may not play dominoes in a cigar store. (Ala. Code § 34-6-12)

Florida - Which is Worse?

In Florida, according to the statutory sentencing guidelines (Fla. Stat. Sec. 921.0012), having sexual intercourse with someone to whom you are related (level 2) is a more severe crime than bribery (level 1).

Don't Burn Yourself!

The US Consumer Product Safety Commission issued a warning in 2006 (Release #06-012) about the Jack O’ Lantern Bucket Candle Holders. These Halloween decorations are designed to have a tea light burning in them, and they come with seven extra candles. The warning is that people should not burn ALL EIGHT candles at the same time. It gets too hot when you do that, and you could scorch your table or carpet, or get burned.

Why don't we just put a warning label on everything that says "Don't Do Anything Stupid"?????

Dallas Litter Permits

If your dog or cat in Dallas, Texas has a litter, you have to get a litter permit before the birth or within 10 days afterward. The city can impound the dog or cat and the litter if you fail to get the permit. (Ord. No. 2007-12-13-1291)

Oregon Predators

In Oregon, the statutory definition of "predatory animals" includes rabbits. (Or. Rev. Stat. § 610.002) Unless Bunnicula lives in Oregon, I don't know that I ever thought of rabbits as predators.

Anchorage Jails

In Anchorage, Alaska, the kitchen in a jail, school, or hospital is not allowed to serve polar bear livers. (18 AAC 31.010 Order No. 2942)

Illinois Sinkholes

In Illinois, you may not disturb water in a large sinkhole without the expressed written permission of the landowner. (525 ILCS §§ 5/2, 5/6)

Wisconsin Butter (again)

It is illegal for a restaurant in Wisconsin to serve margarine as a butter substitute unless the customer specifically orders it. (Wis. Stat. Sec. 97.18(4)) Of course, this begs the question: What else is margarine served as in a restaurant?

Bingo: Neither a Borrower nor a Lender Be

In Calhoun County, Alabama, a bingo parlor may not operate with borrowed equipment. (Ala. Code § 45-8-150.08)

Arkansas Chicks

In Arkansas, a person may not give away baby chicks, rabbits, or ducklings under 2 months old in quantities of fewer than six (6). (Ark. Code § 5-62-121)

Oregon Watches

In Oregon, if you possess a secondhand watch that you plan to sell or trade someday, you have to keep a tag on it that says "secondhand" in English. (Or. Rev. Stat. § 695.220)

Fly a Kite in Dallas

In Dallas, Texas, it is illegal to fly a kite with a metal frame. (Ord. 14971)

Louisiana - Drinking and Driving Don't Mix

In Louisiana, a package liquor store may not sell motor fuel. (La. Rev. Stat. Ann.§ 26:71.2)

Illinois - No Army-Navy Store

In Illinois, a private business selling military surplus may not use the words "Army," "Navy," or "Government" in its name to imply that the products sold are U.S. military surplus. (720 Ill. Comp. Stat. §230/1)

Congressman worried that Guam might capsize

This is not a law, but a US Congressman (Hank Johnson, D Ga.) who asked a stupid question . . This is the article from the LA Times, containing a YouTube video. Pay close attention to the video starting at about 1:15.

In questioning an admiral about the deployment of a few thousand more marines to Guam, this Congressman expressed his concern that the island might tip over and capsize, due to having too many people on the island.

Arkansas Mules at Large

In Arkansas, if you find a mule running at large, you may take him and, if no one claims him within two days, may castrate him. You are entitled to recover three dollars for this service from the owner. (Ark. Code Sec. 2-38-202)

Oregon Hunting

In Oregon, hunting in cemeteries is prohibited. (Or. Rev. Stat.§ 166.645)

Daphne, Alabama

Alabama law says that the name of the City of Daphne is still Daphne. (Ala. Code § 45-2A-30)

California Cockfighting?

In California, it is illegal to give a ticket to a cockfight to anyone under 16. (Cal. Pen. Code Sec. 310)

Delaware Hunting

According to Section 310 of Delaware's statutes, it is illegal to hunt from aircraft, but only while in flight.

Louisiana Donuts

In Louisiana, a donut shop may not also get a license to sell liquor. (LA Revised Stat. § 26:73.1) Are they afraid that donuts AND liquor would be too tempting a combo for police officers to ever leave?

Dallas Rats

A city ordinance in Dallas, Texas, prohibits keeping a live rat in captivity, unless for research or if the rat is trained and kept as a pet. Does training a rat count as research, or do you have to get pet rats that were trained outside of Dallas? (Ordinance 15324)

Wisonsin Urinals

This one needs no commentary, so it is quoted verbatim in its entirety. This is in the Wisconsin Statutes relating to the state's Department of Commerce:

"§ 101.07. Flushing devices for urinals.

The department shall not promulgate any rules which either directly or indirectly prohibit the use of manual flushing devices for urinals. The department shall take steps to encourage the use of manual flushing devices for urinals.

History. 1977 c. 418."

Blind-Tigers

Mississippi authorizes municipalities to "restrain, prohibit and suppress . . . all kinds of indecency and other disorderly practices," which includes blind-tigers, bucket-shops, and dance houses. (Miss. Code Ann Sec. 21-19-19)

California Lottery Law

In California, it is illegal to assist another person in disposing of a lottery ticket. (Cal. Penal Code Sec. 322)

Odd Law of the Day: Oregon Drivers

In Oregon, a driver is required to yield to pedestrians on the sidewalk (OR Code Sec 811.025). No mention is made of when driving on the sidewalk is appropriate.

Odd Law of the Day: Wisconsin Butter

In Wisconsin, it is illegal to serve margarine instead of butter to prisoners. (Wis. Stat. Sec. 97.18(5))

Dumb Law of the Day: Delaware Alcoholic Liquors

In Delaware, possession of perfume with an alcohol content of more than 1/2% is illegal if you intend to sell it as a beverage. (4 Del. C. §901)

Dumb Federal Ruling of the Day: Blow Gun Recall

Consumer Product Safety Commission Release #05-225 was for the voluntary recall of African Blow Dart Guns. Why? The hazard listed is that “Consumers may have mistakenly purchased the dart guns thinking it was a decorative walking stick, posing the risk of injury if someone used the gun for its intended purpose.” Huh? People might buy a blowgun, think it’s a walking stick, and get hurt when they use it as a blowgun?

Dumb Law of the Day: Gambling and Vagrancy in Mississippi

Let's start this blog with an interesting law still on the books in Mississippi, deep South land of casino gambling. Section 97-35-37 of the Mississippi Code defines "vagrants," and subsection (j) classifies "Every keeper of a house of gambling or gaming" as a vagrant.

Let's see - - - so the general manager of the Beau Rivage, a Mirage resort that cost more than $300 Million to build, is, by definition, a vagrant? The penalty upon conviction of a first offense of vagrancy is not less than ten days in jail and not more than thirty days, plus a bond of not less than $250 "for the future industry and good conduct of such person for one year from the date of giving such bond." (97-35-39)