The law is made for a fair and orderly society. As important as laws are, not everyone could memorize each one. But this never seemed to be a problem since most of it is pretty common sense. We all know what is wrong and what is right.
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But did you know that there are some weird laws? What may seem like normal behavior to you may be something illegal in a certain state. Here, we have gathered some of the weirdest and strangest US state laws that are still on the books today.
Alabama
In Alabama, it is illegal to impersonate a priest in public. This law was enacted in 1965. The same law is applied towards impersonating nuns, rabbis, and other religious figures. The state pays a high respect towards these figures.
Source: FarAndWide
This means that when in Alabama, you can not dress up as one – whether it’s for Halloween or a play. You also could not use any accouterments of religious rituals. Doing so is considered a misdemeanor.
Alaska
We bet you did not know this law existed – in Alaska, it is illegal to give alcohol to a moose. Technically, the law states that moose are not allowed to be on public sidewalks or enter taverns. This law was enacted in 1917.
Source: FarAndWide
They say the law began when a local tavern keeper in Fairbanks started getting his moose drunk. The drunk moose would then proceed to do violent havoc in town.
Arizona
In Arizona, there is a law that is entitled “The Stupid Motorist Law.” Yup – you read that right. This law was enacted in 1995. And we are not kidding about the name. It was really titled that way.
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This law states that if a motorist becomes stranded after going through flood zone barricades, they will be charged the cost of their rescue. That sounds like a fair punishment and a lesson for those who stubbornly think they can make it through.
Arkansas
Being a farmer has its limits in Arkansas. Apparently, it is illegal to walk your cow after 1 PM on Sundays. This law was enacted in 1882 and was created specifically for Little Rock’s Main Street.
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Alongside this law, it is also illegal for any kind of livestock creature to wear a bell while in the city after 9 PM. Makes you wonder just how noisy the farm animals are in the area and how many farmers take them out for walks.
California
In California, it is illegal for women to drive in a housecoat, bathrobe, or nightie. We could not trace when this was enacted but we are sure that it must be centuries ago because of its antiquated outlook.
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Sadly, this law is still being enforced. If caught, you can be subjected to hefty fines. This law can really get in the way for when you need to run out real quick or have your midnight cravings.
Colorado
In Colorado, it is illegal to buy or exchange a car on Sundays. This is called the Sunday Closing Law and it was actually revised in 2016. You are free to buy car accessories on a Sunday but no one is allowed to have access to a new car on a Sunday.
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It must have something to do with the fact that a car is a major purchase that involves banks and insurance. These institutions are usually closed on Sundays too. So it actually makes sense to wait until the weekend is over to get a new car.
Connecticut
In Connecticut, there is a 1948 law that states a pickle must bounce before it can be sold. The logic is that if the pickle does not bounce, then it is not really a pickle and you can’t sell it.
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They say the law had to be imposed when a farmer was caught selling pickles that were not fit to be consumed. He must have fooled a lot of people since they had to put the law in writing. The farmer had to pay a $500 fine for deceiving his customers.
Delaware
Do you love church gossip? Better stay away from Delaware. It is illegal to whisper in church. The 1974 law started from Rehoboth Beach where the people took their church services seriously.
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In fact, the law states that anyone who is anywhere within 300 feet of a church is not allowed to whisper. The reason? People in the state considers it to be a disturbance to the congregation.
Florida
Hairstyling and treatments can take time. It’s natural for women to take the day off when they visit the salon. But in Florida, you have to make sure you are wide awake for the whole session.
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They have a law that it is illegal for a woman to fall asleep while they are having their hair dried in a salon. When caught, you and the salon owner will have to pay a fine. This is probably why it is best to go with a girl friend that you can chat with the whole time.
Georgia
Llamas are cute and interesting creatures, right. But in Georgia, you are discouraged to interact with them. In fact, there is a law that states anyone participating in llama-related activities is responsible for any injuries that they could incur.
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This law was enacted in 1991. According to the state of Georgia, llamas are risky animals and the state does not want to get involved. Who knew there are a lot of llama-related activities in Georgia that they had to ake a law about it?
Hawaii
In 1900, a law was enacted stating that it is illegal to put a coin in your ear. It all started when the Hawaiians were told not to use their own currency when they joined the USA. Their currency was burned by the government.
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The native Hawaiians resented the repression. As an act of rebellion, they hid their coins in their ears. If you get caught with a coin in your ear, you will be treated as a rebel who is against the government.
Idaho
In Idaho, it is considered to be against the law to mess and remove telegraph lines. Anyone who gets caught doing so will be guilty of a misdemeanor. This said law has been in effect since 1963.
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Of course, we now have better ways of communication, making this particular law outdated. But despite the fact that telegraph lines are already obsolete these days, this law is still on their books.
Illinois
In 2012, the Senate passed a law that allows underaged culinary students to drink under the age limit, which is 21. But before you decide to move there and enroll in a culinary program so you can get booze, there is a catch.
Source: Pixabay
The catch is that the culinary student can only do so inside a culinary classroom under the supervision of their teacher. Plus, they have to spit the alcohol out after getting a taste. So, basically, underaged culinary students are only allowed to taste alcohol during class.
Indiana
There is a law in Indiana that says mustaches are illegal if you plan to do a lot of kissing. You read that right and that law does exist in the Indiana law books. So, if you love your mustache, keep your hands to yourself if you are dating a girl in Indiana.
Source: FarAndWide
Although it is unclear why such a law was created, let’s keep in mind that laws are being made out of necessity at that time. Perhaps a mustached individual repeatedly got out of control during a makeout session?
Iowa
There is a law in Iowa that prohibits anyone from selling their RV on a Sunday. Strangely, the selling of cars is allowed. Why is this the case? Apparently, there is a rational reason behind this.
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Selling an RV is similar to selling real estate. The process involves a bank, a title, and an insurance company. Most of these are not available on Sundays. So, basically, this law is actually a good thing.
Kansas
If you want to go on a vacation where you can go out and get drunk with your friends, you should stay away from Kansas. The selling of alcohol was completely banned in the state until 1948.
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Thankfully, the prohibition was repealed in 1946 by Congress. However, to this day, there are 29 counties in Kansas that are not allowed to sell liquor by the glass. Guess you just have to buy the entire bottle and take it home with you.
Kentucky
During the early 1900s, a law was made in Kentucky that banned reptiles from entering church premises. The law stems from some religious gatherings that use poisonous snakes in their religious rites. The law was created to prevent any harm from falling upon the congregation or the snake handler.
Source: Pixabay
According to the law, you will have to pay a fine of $50 to $100 if you bring a reptile to church. Despite this, you will be surprised how many religious groups continue to insist on involving snakes in their rituals to this day.
Louisiana
Crawfish is a favorite delicacy in Louisiana. In fact, there is a 2011 law that states it is illegal to steal another person’s crawfish. So you better think twice before taking food out of your partner’s plate.
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This law is not only strange but the sentence you have to pay is equally ridiculous. In fact, if you steal more than $1500 worth of crawfish from someone else, you can be sent to jail for up to 10 years.
Maine
For those who love to break into a small dance every time they are happy, you should refrain from doing so when you are in Maine. There is a law that states you need to have a permit to dance in public – sort of.
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The actual law states that it is illegal to dance in public establishments that are selling alcohol. The only exception is if the establishment has a special amusement permit from the state.
Maryland
Swearing has become a form of self-expression every time we feel upset, mad, frustrated, or even happy over something. If you are the type who swears a lot you better stay away from Rockville, Maryland.
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Rockville has a 2017 law that prohibits people from swearing in public. If you get caught swearing, you could pay a fine of up to $100. So, if you are planning to drop by, it might be best if you do not talk as much as you usually do.
Massachusetts
Do you memorize the lyrics to the “Star-Spangled Banner” well? If you do not, then we suggest that you do not attempt to sing it out loud whenever you are in the state of Massachusetts.
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There is a law that states you should sing the national anthem correctly if you are in public. Getting caught altering the lyrics or singing off-key would mean you have to pay a fine of as much as $100.
Michigan
Michigan was the place to be for married couples. Thanks to the 1931 law that states adultery is considered a felony. If you cheat on your spouse, you can pay a $5000 fine and can be sent to jail for four years.
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But before you pack up your bags and drag your husband to Michigan because you think he will forever be faithful to you there, you should know that this law is not being enforced anymore.
Minnesota
In Minnesota, there is a 1971 law that prohibits the greasing or oiling of pigs when you plan to enter them for a contest or a game. The law was obviously created to make sure that everyone gets a fair chance in winning.
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It kind of makes you wonder what kind of games and contests do pigs attend out there in Minnesota and why greasing a pig would give an advantage. As a tourist, we think you are safe from worrying about breaking this law.
Mississippi
Here is one surprising law in Mississippi because of its draconian and outdated concept. And what makes it more surprising is that this law was enacted in 2013 – at a time where we should know better.
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This law declares that people are only permitted to have one child out of wedlock. If you carry a second child out of wedlock, you can face fines and jail time. It is pretty discriminating for single mothers out there.
Missouri
In Missouri, there is a law enacted in 2000 that declares bear wrestling as illegal. This seems unnecessary to be included in the law since it is common sense that bear wrestling is a bad idea but it turns out they had to put it in writing in the area.
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You see, before 2000, bear wrestling became a common setup in the state. It was not only crazy but it was also inhumane. The state had to set it in law to stop this practice. As a tourist, you are probably safe from being affected by this law.
Montana
If you are into stage and theater then you will be surprised to read this law about stage performers in Billings, Montana. Walking out in the middle of a performance is illegal – no matter what reason you may have.
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The city law states that all performers must remain on stage for their entire performance. Nobody can stop their performance and leave the stage no matter what the reason. This gives a whole new meaning to “The show must go on!”
Nebraska
In Nebraska, there is an antiquated law that will surely make people raise their eyebrows today. According to Nebraska law, it is illegal for anyone who has an STD to get married. It is discriminatory considering that people are not getting STDs on purpose.
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This law does not only gets in the way of a person’s rights but also seems to be hard to enforce. After all, you do not need to get a blood test to get a marriage license. It seems to be a ridiculous waste of congress time.
Nevada
If you find yourself in Reno, Nevada, you should keep walking when you are in the Downtown Reno Regional Center. Their public sidewalks are only allowed for use if you are in a vertical position.
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The 2006 Reno law states that “No person shall sit or lie down upon a public sidewalk or upon a blanket, chair, stool or any other object placed upon a public sidewalk in the Downtown Reno Regional Center.
New Hampshire
The state of New Hampshire had a new homicide law that defined a 20-week fetus as a person. This law provided a loophole for pregnant women who wanted an abortion – meaning they could get one as long as the fetus was below 20 weeks old.
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Although this gives women a choice when it comes to abortion, there was a problem. They had to amend the law in 2017 because the original statement was confusing. It was so vague that it seemed like the state will allow pregnant women to commit murder.
New Jersey
In New Jersey, what you wear while committing a crime matters. A 1983 law states that you should not wear a bulletproof vest while you are committing a crime. Wearing one will be counted as a separate charge on top of the charges for the crime that you committed.
Source: FarAndWide
This seems a little absurd since you are already committing a crime – what you wear when you get caught in the act should not matter. But if you check this one is really in their books!
New Mexico
If you are considered an idiot in New Mexico, you would not be allowed to vote. This law was enacted in 1910 and it seemed to make sense back then but nowadays, we recognize this law as discriminatory.
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Luckily, New Mexico realized how outdated and harmful this law is. They have reversed the ban and changed the language so that it did not sound so discriminatory. Now the law says that those who are not capable of thinking for themselves are not allowed to vote.
New York
New York has a law that states you can only wear masks or any facial alterations and coverings during parties. If you are out in the streets, you can be fined for violating that law. It actually makes sense for security purposes.
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Of course, this rule was set in 1845. Now that we have the COVID pandemic, this law is set aside out of necessity. While the pandemic is going on, wearing of face masks has been required in the state.
North Carolina
There is no room for Halloween or costume parties in the workplace in North Carolina. A 1953 state law declares that costumes are not permitted in business settings. That does not sound like fun, right?
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It may sound to be something bizarre and unnecessary. But there is actually a good reason behind this law. It was actually created to limit and stop the Ku Klux Klan activity that was happening frequently in the state.
North Dakota
You may not have any thoughts in mind when it comes to lentils, lupins, and chickpeas. But these foods are a big deal in North Dakota. In fact, there is a law that only citizens can weigh in when it comes to these food items.
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In 1997, the state created the Dry Pea and Lentil Council, and not just anyone is allowed to serve. Only American citizens were allowed to be members of the council and this was included in the state laws.
Ohio
This seems to be common sense but it looks like the citizens of Grand Rapids, Ohio, needed to put this into writing: if your wild animal escapes, you are required by the law to report it to the authorities within one hour.
Source: Pixabay
Take note that according to the law, wild animals are not limited to animals that can do serious harm to people or properties. It also includes any animal that is not indigenous to the state.
Oklahoma
People who love to gossip would need to behave in Oklahoma. You have to learn how to mind your own business since it is illegal to eavesdrop according to their state laws. At least there is one way to stop people from talking about you behind your back.
Source: FarAndWide
This law was enacted in 1910. According to the law, secretly loitering around with the intent to eavesdrop on a conversation and then repeating the said conversation with ill intent is considered to be a misdemeanor.
Oregon
Did you know that astrology, spiritualism, palmistry, fortune-telling, and mesmerism are not allowed in Yamhill, Oregon? This is because they and several other practices related to them are considered to be a form of occult arts.
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The practice of any form of occult arts is illegal in Yamhill. So, if you are the type who needs to check their horoscope every morning or who needs a push from a fortune teller before making a decision, you will not be getting any in Yamhill.
Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, there is a particular human trafficking law that has to be spelled out into their book but it seems a common-sense rule to the rest of us. So we can’t help but wonder why they even bother.
Source: FarAndWide
The 2006 law we are referring to states that you can not barter your baby. And although everyone around the world should know that, it is still a good thing that this law had to be written out in case someone finds a loophole.
Rhode Island
In 1896, Rhode Island passed a law that states it is illegal to bite off another person’s limb on purpose. If you do, you can face up to 20 years in jail. The same sentence applies to those who put an eye out or slits the nose, ear, and lips.
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It’s not really a bad law to have on the books but it is weird since it is strangely specific and straightforward. It also seems to be unnecessary for it to be called out as a separate charge.
South Carolina
You do not have to be worried about men flirting around recklessly and breaking your heart in South Carolina. They frown upon this so much that they actually made a law about seducing unmarried women.
Source: FarAndWide
This law actually states that any male over the age of 16 is prohibited from seducing an unmarried woman with the false promise of marriage. You can say marriage proposals are not taken lightly in the state.
South Dakota
For those who love having some booze in their candy, you will be disappointed in South Dakota. They have a specific law that states candy can not have more than 0.5% of alcohol in them.
Source: FarAndWide
This particular law was enacted in 2018. Since then it will be very difficult for anyone in the state to indulge themselves in a liqueur-filled candy. You’d have to drive out of state to get yourself some.
Tennessee
In Tennessee, you have to think twice before you participate in a duel. Not just because you might get hurt but also because you will not be allowed to run for any position in the local government.
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According to the state laws of Tennessee, it is considered illegal for someone to run for public office if it is discovered that they had a history of participating in a duel of any kind. This law has been around since 1796.
Texas
Texas has a lot of outrageous laws but there is one law that stands out for being outdated that it steps into anyone’s rights and beliefs. It is actually a surprising find. This particular law has been in effect since 1845.
Source: FarAndWide
According to the Texas constitution, anyone who wants to run for office in Texas is required to believe in God. So, if you are an atheist or you are practicing another religion that worships another deity, you will be disqualified to run for public office.
Utah
In Utah, there is a law that specifies that it is illegal to launch missiles at a bus or a bus terminal. This sounds like a pretty obvious law that should be practiced not only in the country but around the world.
Source: FarAndWide
But then again, this law has an exception – which is weird. According to the law, you can launch the missile if you are security personnel or a peace officer. Of course, you will need to have a good reason to do so.
Vermont
Laundry is a serious matter in Vermont – so serious that they had a specific law about clotheslines in the state. This law was enacted in 2008 and it forbids any regulations that prohibit the people of Vermont from installing clotheslines.
Source: FarAndWide
It actually makes sense – laundry is very important and we all need a place to hang our clothes for drying. We wonder how strict landlords are around the state that a law had to be spelled out for this purpose.
Virginia
Hunters are forced to take a day off once a week since hunting during Sundays is considered to be illegal in Virginia. No woodland creatures can be killed when it’s a Sunday – even if it’s hunting season.
Source: FarAndWide
The only exception to this law is if you are hunting raccoons. Apparently, Virginia is okay of getting rid of them – maybe they have an infestation. Guess it is always raccoon season in the state – even on Sundays!
Washington
The debate of whether Bigfoot is real or not still has not been settled but Washington has a law that says it is illegal to kill Bigfoot. Anyone who slays Bigfoot will be imprisoned for five years.
Source: Pixabay
The law was enacted in 1969 in Skamania County. Back then, people were coming from all over the world to track down the legendary creature. The law has since been updated to include all endangered species.
West Virginia
Did you know that there is a law in West Virginia that states it is illegal to participate in any lascivious or lewd activity before you get married? This law has been in effect since 1931. Today, this just sounds ridiculously unrealistic.
Source: FarAndWide
According to the West Virginia Legislature, such behavior is not only immoral but also illegal. What makes it more surprising thing is that this law was not repealed until 2010. Given that this law had been in effect until 2010, West Virginia probably has a lot of violators.
Wisconsin
It is well-known that you can find the best American cheese in Wisconsin. The state is considered to be the dairy counter of America thanks to its abundant pastures, well-fed cows, and extraordinary cheese-making techniques.
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And the state is so proud of its reputation that they actually have a law that states all cheese from Wisconsin must be “fine, highly pleasing, and free from undesirable flavors and odors.”
Wyoming
Alcohol and skiing are definitely not a good combination. In Wyoming, skiing while under the influence is actually considered a misdemeanor. If you are impaired by alcohol or drugs and you get caught on the slopes, you can pay a fine of up to $200, go to jail for 20 years, or sometimes – even do both.
Source: FarAndWide
So, it is best to stay away from the drinks if you still plan to hit the slopes. Wait until you are done for the day before you relax and take a drink. The $200 fine is too hefty and you definitely would not want to risk going to jail.