Crazy State Laws You Never Knew Existed
Why Do Crazy State Laws Exist?
Many of these laws were created in the early days of the United States, when state legislators were trying to establish order and maintain control. Some laws were created to address specific problems in a particular city or town, while others were enacted to prevent certain behaviors or protect public safety. However, as society has evolved and changed, many of these laws have become irrelevant and outdated.
Examples of Crazy State Laws
Here are just a few examples of some of the craziest state laws that still exist today:
No whistling underwater in Vermont
In Vermont, it is illegal to whistle underwater. While this law may seem silly, it was actually created to prevent people from using underwater whistling as a signal to smugglers during Prohibition.
No sleeping with a cow in Illinois
In Illinois, it is illegal to sleep with a cow. This law was enacted to prevent farmers from falling asleep with their cows and accidentally crushing them.
No selling hollow logs in Tennessee
In Tennessee, it is illegal to sell or transport hollow logs. This law was created to prevent the transportation of moonshine during Prohibition, as moonshiners would often hide their illegal alcohol in hollow logs.
No shooting whales from a moving vehicle in Tennessee
In Tennessee, it is illegal to shoot whales from a moving vehicle. While this law may seem absurd, it was actually created to prevent people from shooting at boats during the days of riverboat gambling.
The Pros and Cons of Crazy State Laws
While many of these laws may seem ridiculous, there are arguments for and against their existence. Some people argue that these laws are a waste of time and resources, as they are rarely enforced and are often ignored. Others argue that these laws serve as a reminder of our country's history and can be a source of amusement for people.
Pros of Crazy State Laws
- They serve as a reminder of our country's history
- They can be a source of amusement for people
- They can prevent certain behaviors
Cons of Crazy State Laws
- They can be a waste of time and resources
- They can be confusing and difficult to enforce
- They can be seen as an infringement on personal freedoms
FAQ
Q: Are these crazy state laws still enforced?
A: While many of these laws are still technically on the books, they are rarely enforced and are often ignored by law enforcement officials.
Q: Why haven't these laws been repealed?
A: Many of these laws have simply been forgotten or overlooked over time. Additionally, some lawmakers may be hesitant to repeal these laws for fear of appearing soft on crime or of offending their constituents.
Q: Can you be arrested for breaking a crazy state law?
A: Technically, yes. However, as previously mentioned, these laws are rarely enforced and are often ignored by law enforcement officials.
Q: Are there any other crazy laws that exist in the United States?
A: Yes, there are countless other crazy laws that exist in the United States. Some other examples include a law in Alabama that makes it illegal to wear a fake mustache in church and a law in Minnesota that prohibits women from wearing high heels while dancing.