Law: 35% of a radio stations content must be "Canadian Content".

Country: Canada

Citation: To qualify as 'Canadian content' a musical selection must fulfill at least two of the following conditions:

M (music) -- the music is composed entirely by a Canadian.

A (artist) -- the music is, or the lyrics are, performed principally by a Canadian.

P (production) -- the musical selection consists of a live performance that is (i) recorded wholly in Canada, or (ii) performed wholly in Canada and broadcast live in Canada.

L (lyrics) -- the lyrics are written entirely by a Canadian.

It seems right since american plays mostly american music. Some stations do play a lot of canadian bands like the Bare Naked ladies, Avril and Sum 41. But there are a lot more american singers and song writers then canadian so a mixture is alright.

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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