It can be verbal or written and was supposed to help reduce crime. Weve all been there. The Heisman trophy was named after John William Heisman who was the first full-time coach and athletic director at Rice University in Houston, Texas. Let's take a closer look at some of the weirdest laws still enforceable in the Lone Star State. In Texas, there are still some strange rules on the books. The new law also adds several misdemeanors. Thankfully, recent revisions to the legal code at the state level have eliminated at least some of the weird laws. #1: Selling your organs According to the Texas Penal Code Section 48.02, it's against the law to sell human organs. To hold a seat in public office, you must acknowledge the existence of a supreme being, 2. It may be your body, but if you might want to remind yourself of which state youre in before thinking its your choice. And in Corpus Christie, you can find yourself in violation of a local law if you are caught breeding alligators in your own home. Can't let things get too wild! Getting people to remember that your eye is worth as much as someone else's eye is a difficult business. All these stereotypes havent even begun to scratch the surface of what a gem Texas is. Texas is the state with the most executions, with 464 between 1974 and 2011. The two people involved agree to be married, live together as a married couple, and tell people that they are married. Always check local laws before you travel. There are many more facts about Texas and you can go on YouTube and watch this video for more: The Lone Star State has a lot more to offer the world. The entire set of books is banned in Texas, and it all comes down to one thing beer. 1 / 50 Mikhaylovskiy/Shutterstock Alabama Throughout Alabama, it's illegal for a person to walk down the street with an ice cream cone in their back pocket. Info? We will never ask you to provide any personal information to us. In the town of Kingsville, two pigs are forbidden in engaging in sex on airport property. The law states that "no entertainer or performer whether male or female shall be permitted to leave such platform or area while entertaining or performing.". H.W. If youre caught sitting on the sidewalk you can be fined up to $500 for breaking the law! Next time you want to sit down, find a cafe instead. The verdicts and settlements listed on this site are intended to be representative of cases handled by Arnold & Itkin LLP. Three of the top 10 most populous cities in the United States are Texas cities, they are Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio. Sometimes, a strange law can still make sense. Because I care, I went deep into the Gettysburg Times archives and found, from. Instead of addressing who was right, the law prevented ranchers from cutting each others fences by making it illegal to carry wire cutters. Colorful lawmen and hard-line justice are part of Texas DNA. Dont buy the Encyclopedia Britannica, 15. It's illegal to get married in Nebraska if you have venereal disease (though courts have later clarified that if the other spouse is aware of the disease at the time of marriage, they can't try to annul the marriage later on these grounds). The Weirdest Law in Every State in the USA, 1. 4. A confusingly worded law designed to ban internet cafes involved in illegal gambling prompted a lawsuit, arguing that the ban could be interpreted to apply to any internet-connected device. The Dallas Cowboys are the sole team in the NFL that has recorded 20 back-to-back winning seasons! The 50 Craziest State Food Laws. Flickr/state_library_south_australia. There are a total of two national parks in Texas: the Guadalupe Mountains national park and the Big Bend national park. Want to give your pet a new look? Texas joined the Union in the year 1845 and it held on to its right to fly the lone star flag at the same height as the national flag. volumes contains a recipe for making beer at home. In fairness, we should probably point out that this particular law was officially repealed in 1974, but its still considered a very impolite thing to do regardless. This weird law exists because one of the volumes contains a recipe for making beer at home. At least when it comes to some of its laws, many of which rank amongst the strangest in America. As long as both parties are consenting, over 18, not already married, and of course not related; you can skip having to bother with getting a marriage license. When she's not running around with friends, she's at home with the most obnoxious cat ever. ContactSenators.com is supported by our readers. Dont sit on the sidewalk in Galveston, States in the U.S. Read theCraziest Laws in the United States, if you want more. You are free, however, to sell blood and hair. Theres a law in Lubbock stating that it is illegal to drive within arms length of alcohol. If you want to show your interest in someone in San Antonia, be careful how you do it. Milking someone else's cow. The population of cattle in Texas is estimated to be in excess of 16 million, which is more than any other state in the United States. We dont know why exactly many of them were created, but we do know everyone could use a good laugh. It's also possibly a felony offense to pursue someone about employment. If two trains meet at a railroad crossing, both must stop and neither can go until the other one is gone. As a college graduate of less than a year, Luiza found herself at a crossroads. Profiting from the sale of your eye, heart, lung, or any other organ within the boundaries of the state is punishable by law. Each separate county in Texas is administered by an administrative, the commissioners court. This law seems pretty odd, but its mostly about trespassing and property theft. If youre wondering about the little things, give your Texas Farm Bureau Insurance Agent a call to make sure you know the ins and outs of your policy so you never get surprised. It might seem ridiculous that theres a law against milking another persons cow. ", If you want your fortune told, you won't find it in Yamhill, Oregon. Colorful Cascarones and Other Easter Traditions, The Ultimate Guide to Texas Gardens & Orchards. Texas handgun owners must still be at least 21-years-old and cannot have served a sentence for a felony or family violence within the last five years. News? According to state law, it's illegal for a person in an "offensive state of intoxication" to "enter or be on or remain upon any railway train or interurban car as a passenger.". document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Liner Law Group18 West BroadwayManhattan, NY 10002. According to houston-criminalattorney.com, theres still an active Texas law that prohibits shooting a buffalo from the second floor of a hotel. The only requirements (from the state) are that both parties must be at least 18 years old, unmarried, and not related to each other. In 2009, a woman was arrested as a practical joke for violating the law, but was later pardoned. First declaration of independence was signed in Goliad where the first flag of Texas Independence was proudly hoisted. In Rhode Island, you can face up to 20 years in prison if you "put out an eye, slit the nose, ear, or lip, or cut off, bite off, or disable any limb or member of another. But sometimes, in their dedication to legislation, Texas lawmakers have gotten a little, well, goofy. You can legally marry someone by stating it out loud. No ones exactly sure why the law was introduced in the first place, and everyones even more confused about why it stipulates a feather duster. But in Texas, one eagle-eyed legislator realized that one of the books contained a formula for making beer at home, which is illegal in the state. The very first declaration of Texas independence was signed on the 20th of December in 1835 when Texas became an independent nation. You can find her writing blog posts and articles while sitting under a tree at the local park watching her kids play, or typing away on her tablet in line at the DMV. While that could mean any number of emissions, theres one in particular that would be heinous in an enclosed space. If you want to find an answer to a question, stick to Google. But then no one noticed, and it accidentally became a law. The area must have a high livability, Read More Why You Should Consider Investing in Brookings, OR Real EstateContinue, New Jerseys beaches, midlands, and mountains are beautiful. But some unfortunate scoundrel prompted San Antonio to pass a law specifically criminalizing urinating on the Alamo. There are plenty of urban legends and fake state laws circulating around the internet. The Big Bend national park got its name because it is situated on the largest bend of the river Rio Grande. Here are some weird laws still in effect in the Lone Star State. Possibly one of the strangest laws in Texas. In Biddeford, Maine, people are dissuaded from trying out any fun, adventurous stunts. If you're planning to commit a serious crime in New Jersey, leave your bulletproof vest at home. State law requires that cheese labeled as Wisconsin certified premium Grade AA meet a certain standard: it must be "fine, highly pleasing and free from undesirable flavors and odors.". Living in Texas is amazingly affordable. Everywhere in the world, you can find weird laws and Texas is no exception. In New York, the penalty for jumping off a building is . (perhaps they could benefit from one of these strange gadgets) 10. Blind folks who have always wanted to hunt are given a chance in Texas. Some of those tourists end up becoming so enamored by the attractions of the Garden State, they never leave. And you had better hold it in. Like a lot of similar laws, no ones exactly sure why it came into existence, and no ones exactly sure why it hasnt been reappeared yet. While we dont know if any court would uphold the enforcement of that law, its still interesting to note how and when the law governed personal conduct or fashion. Throughout the state, you'll also find that there are legal consequences for shooting a buffalo from a hotel window. Texas is also known as the Lone Star State because of its flag which only contains just one star. It used to be unlawful to take more than three sips of beer while on your feet. Unfortunately, its illegal to ride one through a town square in Texas. E: info@urbanmatter.com These are the top ten weirdest in DFW. An ordinance here will force you to ingest a large dose of this liquid, which is to be administered by a doctor. According to stupidlaws.com, the law stipulates that when two trains meet each other at a railroad crossing, each shall come to a full stop, and neither shall proceed until the other has gone. Texas has had a total of eight changes of government with the first being the French: 1519-1685, French 1685-1690, Spanish 1690-1821, Mexican 1821-1836, Republic of Texas 1836-1845, United States 1845-1861, Confederate States 1861-1865, United States 1865 present day. The United States is a diverse country with many different climates, landscapes, and cultures. (George W. Bush (Jr.) was a former Governer, but born in Connecticut. For instance, the Limited Liability Act of 1851was originally written for a maritime industry that lacked weather forecast technology or satellite communication. The law requires that the "the owner or keeper of any member of a species of the animal kingdom that escapes from the owner's or keeper's custody or control and that is not indigenous to this State or presents a risk of serious physical harm to persons or property" must report the escape to the authorities within one hour. As per rhinolawyer.com, if you want to hold public office in Texas, youll first need to acknowledge the existence of a supreme being. Besides these, Colorado has ongoing employment opportunities in aviation,, Read More The 10 Cheapest Places to Live in ColoradoContinue. As per lrl.texas.gov, its now a crime to commit a crime of violence against the person or property of another without having first notified the victim of his intent to commit the crime and of the victims rights; providing penalties.. The law sounds random, but was likely passed to crack down on Ku Klux Klan activities in the state. The Texas state capitol building is faced in pink granite and is 7 feet higher than the U.S. national capitol. How this works in practice is baffling, but if you want to stay on the right side of the law, be prepared to work it out. If you havent, keep your sneakers on at all times. It's illegal to sell or display "living baby chicks, ducklings, goslings, or other fowl or rabbits which have been dyed, colored or otherwise treated so as to impart to them an artificial color. In 1979, a tropical storm named Claudette caused unceasing rains that resulted in 45 inches of rain in a location adjacent to Alvin, Texas. There is a law against two pigs having sex on the citys airport property. For more than 50 years, the country's leading training, research, and flight control programs have been conducted here. Everywhere in the world, you can find weird laws and Texas is no exception. Texas Penal Code 38.12 (a) makes it a felony to talk to someone in hopes of finding employment. There's an old state law that makes it a punishable offense to show up to a church in a disguise. (a) A person commits an offense if, with intent to obtain an economic benefit the person: (1) knowingly institutes a suit or claim that the person has not been authorized to pursue; [or] (2) solicits employment, either in person or. Even though today there are many legal options for home beer making, if youre caught with the books you can be fined or do some jail time. 3. In the year 1900, a hurricane hit Galveston and caused over 8000 deaths. The law states that "no person shall sit or lie down upon a public sidewalk, or upon a blanket, chair, stool, or any other object placed upon a public sidewalk in the Downtown Reno Regional Center.". Alabama Putting salt on a railroad track could be punishable [] Bush is from Massachusetts and W is from Connecticut. The law states that only the owner, pump operator or employee is allowed to pump the gas. But no weird sex law story would be complete without mentioning San Antonio. Individuals intending on committing a crime are supposed to give their victims 24-hours notice before it happens. Simone Biles is from Texas and she has the highest number of medals for a black, female American gymnast in World Championship history. Mississippi once passed a law stipulating that any person who has already had an illegitimate child and again becomes the parent of an illegitimate child within the state is guilty of a misdemeanor, punishable by fines, jail time or both. The law is a powerful thing. The average cost of living in Texas is 7% lower than the national average. From venues, restaurants, and bars to events, festivals, and music weve got you covered. Cynthia Cooper is the only player in the history of the United States to have won the WNBA Championship MVP. This law is actually about what is permitted under the law, rather than whats not allowed. The 86th Texas Legislature didn't get too crazy. Need ideas? Back in the mid-1980s, the Texas Legislature specifically told Texans not to sell their eyes in a statute prohibiting the purchase and sale of human organs. In South Carolina, a law once made a man guilty of a misdemeanor if he seduced an unmarried woman using "deception and promise of marriage." While you can only be fined $10, its not worth the time and hassle. In Tennessee, you are breaking the law if you drive while sleeping. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. dumblaws.com Utah Alcohol may not be sold during an emergency . If you want to fuss with your stockings in Bristol, prepare for some jail time. Time to warm that soul up with a nice bowl of Texas chili. That said, laws are weird. 6. It was erected and unveiled in 1994 when Texas. Not to worry though, you can get a permit for about $5, and then youre free to live your best no-shoes life. These listings are not a guarantee or prediction of the outcome of any other claims. Read more Interesting Alabama Facts and Weird Laws Image: Unsplash #2. Texas is also home to about 450 species of birds which makes it a favorite for bird watchers and it has the most bird species in the United States. Raccoons, take note. Texas Penal Code Section 48.02 has the guts to say it: selling (or buying) human organs is illegal. This is only legal in four states . Pi is a long, irrational number, and it's tough to remember. And also what about that is illegal, other than it is just a strange activity with a great visual image. The story is that a state senator who didn't want a certain law passed tacked this ridiculous conundrum onto the law to ensure it couldn't go forward. It is illegal to have an open container in a car. If you're a live performer in Billings, Montana, you need stamina: you're required by law to remain on stage throughout the duration of your performance. 200 N LaSalle St Ste 1540 Chicago, IL 60601 However, it is permissible to kill raccoons. Watch your language in Maryland. Technically, theyre required of a kind and number to efficiently contain expectorations into them, so even just a single spittoon might do these days. The summer is hot and muggy with an average temperature of 102F (39C) along the Rio Grande! Darn, there goes my plan to get rich. People who have been there reported very positive experiences, claiming it was highly unusual and otherworldly. Turns out, she was as passionate about writing for a living as she was horseback riding or rock climbing. According to one Texas law, criminals who intend to commit a crime are supposed to give their victims oral or written notice 24 hours in advance. From a law against wearing socks with sandals in Florida to one against eating rabbits in Oklahoma, here are some of the craziest laws in the US. However, legislators quickly amended the law after it became clear that its vague language could have permitted pregnant women to commit any murder without consequences. Featured Image Credit: Ramdlon on Pixabay. It's illegal to have more than two in a particular location during the course of one year. Its high temperatures, barbeque, and live music. They don't mess around with moose in Alaska. Perhaps these guides on how to start an LLC in Texas and how to find a great registered agent in Texas can help you avoid any legal issues when opening or doing business in the state. It can be verbal or written and was supposed to help reduce crime. The entire encyclopedia is banned in Texas because it contains a formula for making beer at home. It does, however, apply in Houston, where even a nibble of a slice of Limburger cheese on a Sunday could be enough to get you in bother with the law. Announce it 3 times in public instead! In 1821, Texas was under the control of Mexico. The state of Texas does not require drivers to have a windshield. Texas law also says that it's illegal to carry wire cutters in your pocket, land an airplane on the beach, and ride horses at night without "tail" lights. Sometimes you can intuit an imaginary, zany situation that prompted the passing of a peculiar Texas statute. In some cities, youre required to purchase a $5 permit before walking around barefoot. It's as simple as that, as long as you're a legal adult. As much as we all might want some fresh dairy in the morning, its illegal to milk another persons cow without permission. Texas Has Some Pretty Weird Laws. Think again. If you do decide to go ahead with the wedding ceremony, dont panic if you forget to invite your fiancee thanks to a proxy marriage law, neither the groom nor the bride has to be present at the ceremony for the marriage to be considered legally binding. It's illegal in Vermont to prohibit clotheslines. Therefore, the state legislature voted to ban the set of books. However, Texas has some totally strange laws that are still completely enforceable. So concerned is the city about the threat of civilians taking up valuable sidewalk space, theyre prepared to fine anyone caught doing it a stonking $500. Not only is it disgusting and quite possibly a health hazard, but its also a crime. Common Misconceptions About The State Of Texas, Texas Unemployment Insurance Benefits Guide, Ultimate Guide to Medicaid Benefits in the USA, How to Get South Dakota Medicaid Benefits | Best Answers, How to Get Wyoming Medicaid Benefits | Best Answers, How to Get Wisconsin Medicaid Benefits | Best Answers, How to Get West Virginia Medicaid Benefits | Best Answers, New Mexico Unemployment Insurance Benefits Guide, The Longhorn, the armadillo, and the Mexican free-tailed bat. Bigfoot hunters, beware. While we dont have the specific story behind this law, its not hard to imagine that El Paso was perhapsdealing with an excess of spit in public spaces. (Temple) 4 208 votes Selling one's eye It is illegal to sell one's eye. It no longer solely depends on the strength of oil. No Concealed Carry of Wire Cutters In Austin, you're not allowed to carry wire cutters in your pocket. The law was later amended, designating Bigfoot as an endangered species. Texans also enjoy bullfighting though the state prohibits killing the bulls. Someone clearly never learned to do joined-up handwriting at school. The French were the first to colonize Texas in 1685 where they established a colony in Matagorda bay but they were later driven out by the Spanish. . In Texas, you can legally marry someone if you publicly proclaim that the person is your husband or wife three times. While these laws are bizarre, they are still enforceable. 4. Fortunately, neither do the authorities, so youre unlikely to get into too much trouble if you cant resist a little light dusting. The state of Texas has a lot to offer, from the best barbeque in the United States to rodeo for the adventurous spirits. Not if youre in Houston, anyway. The Spanish explorer lva Nez Cabeza de Vaca was the first-ever European to step foot in Texas. Don't bother trying to keep your fingers clean if you're devouring fried chicken in Georgia. Texas doesnt really care if you want to shoot a buffalo, but it does care where you do it. In Virginia, it's illegal to "hunt or kill any wild bird or wild animal, including any nuisance species" on Sundays. Partly because who would be. Individuals intending on committing a crime are supposed to give their victims. Still, these laws technically existand if anything, are good for giving us a peek at what life must have been like in small towns all over Texas a century ago (or even more recently). Their winning streak stretched from 1966 to 1985. Texas is home to Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Stafford a city in Houston. Some people have called the law into question. Lets bust some myths and talk about some Texas facts that will blow your mind and leave you craving for a visit to the Lone Star state! You're also not allowed to drive a motor vehicle down Broadway Street before noon on Sundays. This is considered the deadliest natural disaster in the history of the United States.