Here Are the Strangest Laws in Virginia
What do Colombian “Modern Family” star Sofia Vergara, South African Oscar-winning actress Charlize Theron, and Israeli Harvard psychology graduate (now Hollywood star)- Natalie Portman have in common?
All of them are foreigners who were randomly discovered in the United States and became famous. That is because America is the land of freedom, of all possibilities and opportunities for prosperity and success. Meaning everyone is free to pursue the American Dream.
Nevertheless, if you are in Virginia, you are not free to hunt any animals on Sundays. Except for raccoons. However, not before two am. Also, don’t tickle a woman. It will have severe consequences.
Living the “Virginia Dream”
Virginia is known for being colonized as a region that would produce silk, but due to the spread of a fungus, it ended up producing tobacco. This region of Virginia preserved itself and traveling here feels like going back in time. Tobacco producers have moved to countries where production is much cheaper, which has led to economic depression in this area.
The mountain towns of Virginia are known for locals’ passion for the simple pleasures of life, like trucks, beer, and NASCAR. Religion is also an important part of daily life. The state is home to “Virginia Tech University” in Blacksburg and “University of Virginia” in Charlottesville.
Another interesting fact is that camouflage was invented here. It is the birthplace of streaking and fraternities. According to local gossip, George William Crump was the first member of a fraternity to get arrested. The reason? You guessed it, streaking.
Richmond is the capital of Virginia. This city was once synonymous with the Old South but is becoming more liberal nowadays. For example, they are enforcing gun laws, are LGBTQ+ friendly, and are increasing the minimum wage.
Virginia Vs. Common Sense
Besides being known for its rich history and acknowledged for its latest progress, Virginia has rather silly laws. Some of these make you question your common sense.
1. Law Prohibits Parking on the Railroad
Virginia is making a good point as we all can imagine what would happen if you left your car on the railroad. Yet, it remains a mystery why the state of Virginia felt like this law needed to be officially introduced.
2. No Matter the Circumstances, You Are Not Allowed To Spit on a Seagull.
Have you ever felt so frustrated and angry that you had the urge to spit on a seagull? No, me neither, but someone in Virginia felt like it, so now it’s illegal.
3. When You Want To Check If the Shoe Fits, Don’t Use an X-ray Machine for That.
Doing so is a class 3 misdemeanor. Virginians were fascinated by modern technology. They were trying to find an everyday use for the X-ray machine. So, it quickly became popular in shoe stores since it was easier for salespeople to measure customers’ feet. But, once the governance discovered how dangerous radiation is, it became illegal.
4. It Is Illegal To Drive a Golf Cart on the Highway.
Because citizens were in a hurry to get from one golf field to another, this law had to be introduced.
5. Walking Around a Cemetery at Night Is Forbidden by Law.
While being in a cemetery at night sounds like the perfect horror movie scenario, it might be the perfect spot for a first date for some people. However, Virginia State Authority said you are not allowed there at night.
Hello Virginia, It’s Me 2021
While some laws seem obvious and are somewhat humorous, other legal practices in Virginia that are outdated can be dangerous and even life-threatening.
1. It Is Legal for a Man To Beat His Wife on the Courthouse Steps, as Long He Does It Before Eight P.M.
The Violence Against Women Act of 1994 (VAWA) was a United States federal law (Title IV of the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act, H.R. 3355) signed by President Bill Clinton on September 13, 1994. While people all around the U.S. are struggling to diminish violence and discrimination, this legal action seems to lag behind.
2. It Is Illegal for a Woman To Walk at Night Without Wearing a Corset and Without a Man
Living like in the 19th century isn’t romantic. It is violating human rights. Fortunately, although this law is still active in the books, it is not enforced.
3. Even if You Are Not the Driver, You Can Be Charged With DUI if Found Intoxicated in a Vehicle
If you’re intoxicated but not driving your car, both the driver and you may be charged with DUI (Virginia Beach).
4. It Is Illegal to Practice Law Without a License
As logical as this seems to many of us, it is a common offense in Virginia. Giving legal advice without a license makes you guilty of class 1 misdemeanor. Practicing law without a license can get you in a whole other heap of trouble.
If you find yourself wronged by the laws of Virginia, it is always a good idea to have an experienced attorney at your disposal. Check https://www.virginiasinjurylawyers.com/ for a broad practice area that covers all counties in Virginia.
You Are Not Alone, Virginia
● In Washington, it’s illegal to kill Big Foot. You might face five years in prison.
● Vermont forbids cloth lines.
● In Utah, you are not allowed to cause a catastrophe. Florida would be jealous.
● Sorry for all aspiring astrologists, but you are not allowed to practice occult arts in Oregon.
● In South Carolina, you are not allowed to seduce unmarried women.
● No business meetings are allowed in North Carolina if you are wearing a costume. Not a suit, but a full-on Halloween attire.
America, the Land of All Possibilities
The U.S. is the place where you can become famous overnight. Or, on the contrary, lose your fame overnight. The country that many blindly believe will change their lives. But it is also the country where you can get murdered on the streets in broad daylight, where human rights are still violated, where politicians are corrupt and greedy for power. Welcome to America.
