Law: Bicycle riders may not lift either foot from the peddles, as it might result in a loss of control. Also, anyone who whistled at or annoyed a bicycle rider could be arrested.

Explanation: After a coach killed a bicycle rider in a hit-and-run incident in 1895, efforts were made to pass laws for the protection of riders.


Law: No dolls can be burned that resemble prominent personalities

Explanation: Beginning in colonial Mexico, likenesses of Judas were burned by inhabitants for unknown reasons. Whether is was in imitation of burning dead heretics in effigy as was done in the Inquisition, or a remnant of pagan celebrations such as the Roman Saturnalia, the Judas burnings took hold in Mexican society. By the 1800s, these celebrations had become more of a carnival than a religious festival. The Judas figures transformed into likenesses of powerful leaders in Mexican society that the lower classes wished to poke fun at. The celebrations became so raucus that in the mid 19th century, political leaders wished to take action restricting the event.

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Law: It is unlawful to refuse a person a glass of water.

Country: United States

State/Province: Arizona


Explanation: In the summer-time, with temperatures reaching topping 120 degrees,
often people will need water, but may not have the
money to pay for it (mainly applies to homeless).
Hence, the law. It is very much in effect today, with
businesses being reported (and heavily fined) who
refuse to supply water to those who ask for it.
Convenience stores are the primary businesses who uphold
this law.

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Law: Organizations may not hold their meetings while the members present are in costume.

Country: United States

State/Province: North Carolina


Explanation: To discourage members of the Ku Klux Klan from operating within the state, certain measures such as this one were taken. The KKK was known for their use of white hooded costumes during meetings and demonstrations for purposes of remaining anonymous as well as inflicting fear on others. By making these actions illegal, the organization's power was somewhat weakened.

Law: Panhandlers must first obtain a $10 permit before begging on the streets of downtown Memphis.

Country: United States

State/Province: Tennessee

City: Memphis

Explanation: This law was enacted in an attempt to limit panhandling in downtown Memphis which is a main tourist area. The panhandlers were becoming so numerous and aggressive that it was decided that something needed to be done. After the law was enacted, the local police have much more leverage in dealing with these types. The ordinance is mainly targeted at "aggressive panhandlers" who are more likely than "passive panhandlers" to scare off tourists, and therefore reduce tourism income


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Law: It is illegal to say "Oh, Boy."

Country: United States

State/Province: Georgia

City: Jonesboro

Explanation: After the south was destroyed during the Civil War, former slaves who were now free had no place to go. As a result, they had no regular money, and sadly, little or no food. Many former slaves lived in Jonesboro the city, working for whatever money they could earn. Unfortunately, there was almost no work for them due to the economic downturn. Sometimes, when the richer gentlemen came to town, they would want their horses cleaned. Former slaves, some of whom hadn't eaten in days, would fight over who got to clean the horse. This would earn them enough money to eat for the night. As a result of the fights, many were killed, and were others injured. Because of all this, the city of Jonesboro passed a law saying that these wealthy people could no longer come to town and call for these former slaves. How did they used to call them? "Oh, boy!"

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