Over history, America has had many laws that citizens have had to abide by. While some of these laws may have seemed normal back in the day, nowadays they’re considered very abnormal. However, there are still laws that people have to abide by. Here are 17 of the most bizarre laws.
Frog-Jumping Contests in California
FindLaw writes, “Any person may possess any number of live frogs to use in frog-jumping contests, but if such a frog dies or is killed, it must be destroyed as soon as possible and may not be eaten or otherwise used for any purpose.” This law is used to protect the welfare of frogs during competitions.
No Selling Children in Florida
While it’s already illegal to sell your children under federal law, Florida also felt the need to include it in its state law. It shows just how proactive Florida is in ensuring that children are protected in the state. Just like in any other state, a person can expect severe legal penalties for selling their child.
No Tying Giraffes to Telephone Poles in Georgia
While it seems incredibly unlikely, a person is prohibited from tying a giraffe to a telephone pole in Atlanta, Georgia. It’s thought that this originated from animal welfare issues and the fact that it can be annoying for people walking in the street. It’s a bizarre old law that hasn’t been removed in modern times.
No Catching Fish with Your Hands in Indiana
It’s illegal to catch fish with your bare hands in Indiana. This law has been in place for a very long time and is thought to be a way to give fish a fair chance. However, it can be argued that fish have more of a chance if a person is fishing with their hands compared to being lured with bait.
No Dyeing Ducklings in Kentucky
Dyeing ducklings is considered animal cruelty in Kentucky and is therefore a law still in place today. It’s also used as a way to make sure birds aren’t sold in an improper way. When selling any ducklings, a person also needs to ensure they’re sold in packs of six and are over two months old.
Jambalaya is Above the Law in Louisiana
According to the Louisiana State Legislature, “it shall be lawful to prepare jambalaya in the traditional manner for public consumption, including the use of iron pots, wood fires, and preparation in the open for service to the public.” It means jambalaya can still be cooked in its traditional way, even if it isn’t the most hygienic.
No Dancing at Dance Halls Without Permission in Maine
You can’t dance in Maine’s dance halls without a permit. This law was originally put in place to control public gatherings, as it’s a way to keep the public safe. For example, it stops gatherings in places that are too small and prevents injuries.
No Bringing Lions to the Movies in Maryland
One of the most bizarre laws in America is in Maryland, where it’s illegal to bring a lion to public venues. It’s been put in place as a way to ensure public safety. Nowadays, not many people are going to consider bringing a lion to entertainment venues, but it would’ve been a bigger issue a couple of hundred years ago.
Adultery is Still a Crime in New York
One law that hasn’t been reconsidered is New York’s adultery law. If a person is found guilty, they could face up to 90 days in prison or receive a $500 fine. It’s a law that’s rarely enforced in modern times, but if a person wanted to, then they could press charges against their spouse.
No Biting Off Someone’s Limb in Rhode Island
Although this would also come under federal law, Rhode Island has a specific law against biting off a person’s limb. It was put in place as a way to protect someone against extreme cases of physical assault. A person will face severe penalties for something this extreme.
No Stink Bombs in South Carolina
In South Carolina, only a peace officer has the right to place or throw a stink bomb or tear gas. This is because of their toxic chemicals and how dangerous they can be to people. Stink bombs will only be used by peace officers in extreme circumstances.
You Can’t Sell Your Eyes in Texas
Even though they’re a part of your own body, it’s illegal to sell your eyes in Texas. It’s not just eyes; it’s illegal to sell any of your own organs, whether that’s a kidney, heart, or liver. It makes sure everything is done on an ethical basis when it comes to organ donation.
No X-rays for Shoe Fittings in Washington
X-rays can’t be used for shoe fittings in Washington due to health issues. The law was put in place as a way to protect the public from unnecessary exposure to radiation. It’s a law that will barely be needed in modern times, as most people purchase shoes online.
No Fishing with Firearms in Wyoming
When fishing in Wyoming, it’s important not to take any firearms with you. There’s a law in place that states you can’t use a gun to aid you in fishing. This is to ensure animal welfare when a person is fishing and to help preserve populations.
No Dancing to the National Anthem in Massachusetts
There’s a law in place in Massachusetts that states a person can’t dance to the national anthem. It isn’t considered a “dancing song” and reflects that a person should have a sense of respect when it comes to representing their country. Even though it’s seen as outdated, the law is still in place.
Illegal to Eat Fried Chicken with Utensils in Gainesville, Georgia
In 1961, Gainesville came to the conclusion that fried chicken is a delicacy and should therefore be eaten with bare hands. The last time this law was actually enforced was in the early 2000s, as a practical joke, when a 91-year-old woman was arrested for eating chicken with utensils.
Tailgating is Illegal After Midnight in Fenwick Island, Delaware
Between the hours of midnight and 6 a.m., it’s illegal to tailgate on Fenwick Island in Delaware. The law was originally put in place as a way to control the levels of disturbances throughout the night, making sure residents could have a peaceful night’s sleep.
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