The legal history of the United States is characterized by its abundance and intricacy, as laws have been enacted over the course of centuries to tackle a wide range of issues, from horse theft to texting while driving.
However, on occasion, these laws can become somewhat peculiar in nature. Join us for a whimsical exploration into a collection of the most unconventional and weird laws in the US that are still in effect throughout the nation.
1. Alabama: It’s illegal to wear a fake mustache in church that causes laughter
Believe it or not, it’s against the law to cause disruptions during a church service in Alabama, even if it’s due to someone wearing an improperly fitting fake mustache that causes the entire congregation to burst into laughter.
Passed during the early 1900s, this legislation sought to uphold propriety within religious establishments. During that time, it was deemed inappropriate to engage in public acts of entertainment, especially within a religious context. Nevertheless, in our current, more lenient culture, it appears rather absurd to make a small chuckle punishable by law.
2. Alaska: It is illegal to whisper in someone’s ear while they are moose hunting
In Alaska, moose hunting is upheld with great importance. With such gravity placed on the activity, it is strictly prohibited to engage in whispering into someone’s ear while they are partaking in the hunt.
While this regulation may be categorized as a dumb law, it implies the significance of maintaining silence and concentration during a fruitful hunting expedition. Moose possess exceptional auditory capabilities, and any disturbance has the potential to startle the creature and disrupt the pursuit.
3. Arizona: It’s illegal to dig up and move a saguaro cactus
The saguaro cactus is a renowned emblem of Arizona. These magnificent behemoths require hundreds of years to mature, and the state has strong measures in place to safeguard them. Without obtaining a permit, it is against the law [1] to excavate or relocate a saguaro. This legislation is entirely logical, taking into account the ecological significance of these cacti and their notably gradual rate of development.
4. California: Right of residents to access sunlight for their laundry needs
California may be known for its beaches, but did you know it also guarantees residents access to sunlight for drying laundry?[2] This law dates back to the late 1800s when many homes lacked dryers. It reflects a time when sunlight was a necessity for everyday life, not just a luxury for a tan.
5. North Carolina: It is illegal to operate or participate in a game of bingo while under the influence of an impairing substance
In North Carolina, there is a strong emphasis on maintaining the integrity of bingo nights [3], which is completely understandable. Evidently, consuming excessive amounts of alcohol prior to participating in a game of bingo is strongly discouraged within the state of North Carolina.
This legislation is likely rooted in worries concerning the addictive nature of gambling and the need for equitable participation. It underscores the longstanding connection between bingo and older adults, aiming to safeguard them against potential exploitation.
6. Washington: It’s a misdemeanor to expose others to a contagious disease, even the common cold
Washington has a stringent approach towards the transmission of communicable illnesses, including even the ordinary cold. Inadvertently exposing others to such diseases [4] is classified as a misdemeanor. While this legislation is logical during periods of worldwide pandemics, it is intriguing to contemplate its implementation prior to widespread knowledge about microorganisms.
7. Kansas: It’s illegal to serve wine in teacups
In Kansas, there exists a particular statute prohibiting the serving of wine in teacups. Although the exact origins of this law are unclear, there are speculations linking it to endeavors aimed at reducing alcohol intake during the Prohibition period.
Maybe teacups were perceived as a means of concealing wine intake, resulting in the implementation of this particular limitation. It serves as a testament to how previous societal movements can imprint their influence on legal regulations.
8. Kentucky: It’s unlawful to sell dyed ducks, chickens, or rabbits unless selling in quantities of six or more
In Kentucky, it is against the law to sell dyed ducks, chickens, or rabbits unless they are being sold in groups of six or more [5]. This peculiar legislation is believed to have been enacted in order to address issues surrounding animal welfare and the prevention of misleading practices. Presenting a singular colored creature for sale might potentially be perceived as a means to deceive individuals into acquiring something that deviates from its natural state.
9. Maine: It’s illegal to keep Christmas decorations up after January 14th
In the state of Maine, there is a set limit for embracing the holiday season. It is against the law to maintain Christmas decorations beyond January 14th [6]. While this legislation belongs to the group of weird laws in the US and may appear somewhat stingy, it could be attributed to upholding a sense of organization and deterring excessive visual chaos in public areas.
10. Oregon: It is illegal to go hunting in a cemetery
Engaging in hunting activities within a cemetery [6] is regarded as highly disrespectful, which is precisely why it is considered unlawful in the state of Oregon. This legislation is in place to uphold the sanctity of burial grounds and ensure a serene atmosphere for families who are mourning.
To Recap!
These weird laws in the US provide a window into history and the occasionally eccentric worries of various societies. While certain laws may appear obsolete, others emphasize enduring principles such as environmental preservation or upholding societal harmony.
If you have inquiries regarding any of these laws or require legal guidance, it is advisable to seek the counsel of a licensed attorney in your state. They will be able to furnish you with the latest information and keep you up-to-date.
References
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Hennessy-Fiske, M. (2020, February 27). It’s illegal to destroy saguaro cactuses. So why are they being removed for Trump’s border wall? – Los Angeles Times. Los Angeles Times. https://www.latimes.com/world-nation/story/2020-02-26/border-wall-saguaro-cactus
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Howland, J. (2022, October 26). Clothesline bans void in 19 states. Sightline Institute. https://www.sightline.org/2012/02/21/clothesline-bans-void-in-19-states/
- North Carolina General Assembly. (1982). Chapter 18B: Regulation of Alcoholic Beverages. North Carolina General Assembly. https://files.nc.gov/ncdps/div/ALE/chp18b.pdf.
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RCW 70.54.050: Exposing contagious disease—Penalty. (n.d.). https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=70.54.050
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Did you know? (n.d.). https://cops.usdoj.gov/html/dispatch/08-2013/did-you-know.asp
- Texas Education Agency. (n.d.). Promoting Positive Restorative Relationships at Home: Lesson 11, Elementary Social Studies Circle. Texas Education Agency. https://tea.texas.gov/texas-schools/health-safety-discipline/promotingpositiverestorativerelationshipsathome-lesson11elementarysocialstudiescircle.pdf.
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ORS 166.645 – Hunting in cemeteries prohibited. (n.d.). https://oregon.public.law/statutes/ors_166.645
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