Rhode Island Laws
I live in the tiniest state in the nation: Rhode Island. I’ve been here for the past 17 years and I could blog about the oddities of this state for days. Not only do I make fun of the way people talk here (I’m not a native, so I can do that!) but I’ve recently discovered that there are completely insane Rhode Island Laws still in effect. I think I’ve even broken some.
So, from the state where people are known to go to out for a “Beah” (beer) and a “Gagga” (a disgusting hot dog with too many toppings) here are some of the laws I’ve discovered.
Exercising any labor, business, or work, or using any game, sport, play, or recreation, or causing any of the above to be done to or by your children on the first day of the week (Sunday) results in a penalty of $5 for the first offense and $10 for the second. OK, I’ll just give them Sundays off from now on.
Any marriage where either of the parties is an idiot or lunatic is null and void. Are you kidding me? I didn’t need to go through the expense of a divorce 9 years ago? I’m calling my attorney for a refund.
One must make a loud noise before passing a car on the left. What type of noise? Should I no longer just use my directional? I guess I’m going to just scream like a mad woman next time I pass someone on the left. I can add that to the screaming I already do because Rhode Islanders do not know how to drive.
It is illegal to drive down any street with beer in your car, even if it is unopened. Fortunately I don’t drink beer. I’ve never even had one. However, for those in RI who pick up a six-pack every day to stimulate the failing economy here, how do they transport it? Tie it the tail pipe and drag it behind the car? Perhaps just do what many do here…drink it all before you get in the car. Then get a hand slap for drinking and driving if you can show you are in public office.
It is illegal to use water on even-numbered days for the sole purpose of watering plants, gardens, or lawns. I can’t even keep track of what day it IS, never mind what day I can water my plants. Come to think of it, I could really have some fun with this. Let’s see, what neighbor is pissing me off on even numbered days and I’m going to go turn on their sprinkler and call in the law.
You may not sell toothpaste and a toothbrush to the same customer on a Sunday. So, you’re shit out of luck if you drop yours in the toilet on a Sunday and need a new one? I assume the guy who wrote this law had no teeth?
It is illegal to wear transparent clothing. This is a law that should remain. There are a lot of men who think it’s OK to wear bright orange tank-tops in the summer showing off their fur covered body. Anything transparent, sleeveless, or showing too much skin in Rhode Island should be outlawed.
The laws were made for a reason. I'm intrigued to know what someone did with a Toothbrush AND toothpaste to warrant making it illegal to sell both on the same day to the same customer.
My mind is going overtime in places that would be too rude to type up. I'll let your imagination take over!
Make a loud noise when passing in MI, get ready for road rage.
How do you get beer home from the store? Do they strap it to the roof like they do at lumber yards?
Love the the watering revenge.
I think it would be interesting to hear the story behind why these laws were passed. They are funny.
This is too funny! I loved it, and I think men who wear bright orange tank tops showing their fur-covered body should be arrested, sheared like sheep, and sent on their merry way.
Too funny, too sad, too true! State laws everywhere should be reviewed (and probably revoked) every decade. But do they? nooooo.
LOL!! What a hoot! If you keep your horse in a bathtub or if you're under the age of 18 and play a pinball machine, you're toast in South Carolina. Whew, thankfully I wasn't caught with that pinball machine so many years ago and I think I'll keep the pictures to myself of my horse bathing.
As usual, you bring a smile to my face. Hope you are doing well Cheryl!
I want to know who gets to make the idiot / lunatic call? Does the sane person make the call or do you need a state-appointed arbiter?
I love the old laws as they are totally ridculous. Did a piece on that myself a while back.
There should be little cards you can hand out that say Sir and or Madam what you are wearing is scaring the children. Please go home and change before the fashion police are called!!
OMG – next time I want a divorce (and hell will be frozen if I get married again) I know where to come to do the deed ….
On fashion note I think that law should be introduced internationally I can think of a few folk who should be booked guilty as charged – offensive to the eyeball.