Maryland, a state known for its rich history and picturesque landscapes, also has its fair share of bizarre and outdated laws that have managed to remain on the books for decades.
While most of these laws are no longer actively enforced, their existence serves as a reminder of how legal systems can sometimes fail to keep up with the times. In this article, we’ll explore five particularly dumb laws that are still technically in effect in the state of Maryland.
Oral Sex is Illegal
One of the most widely known and discussed laws in Maryland is the prohibition of oral sex, both giving and receiving. This law, which also includes animals, dates back to the state’s colonial era and has remained in place despite changing societal attitudes and the Supreme Court’s 2003 ruling that struck down similar laws in other states as unconstitutional.
Bringing a Lion to the Movies is Prohibited
If you’re a resident of Baltimore and have a pet lion, you might want to reconsider taking it to the movies. According to state law, it is illegal to bring a lion to a movie theater within city limits. While the reasoning behind this law is unclear, it serves as a testament to the absurdity of some of Maryland’s legal statutes.
Selling Chicks or Ducklings Near Easter is a No-No
In a move that seems to target the Easter holiday, it is illegal in Baltimore to sell chicks or ducklings to minors within one week of the holiday. This law, while likely well-intentioned, raises questions about its practicality and effectiveness in modern times.
Cursing on the Highway is Prohibited
Drivers in Maryland should be mindful of their language while on the highway. In Rockville, it is against the law to curse while driving on the highway. While this law may have been enacted to promote civility and reduce road rage, its enforcement is questionable and its effectiveness is debatable.
Thistles in Your Yard? Not on My Watch!
Across the entire state of Maryland, it is illegal to have thistles growing in any private yard. This law, which aims to maintain a certain level of landscaping standards, seems to be an overreach of government authority and a potential infringement on individual property rights.
Conclusion
While these laws may seem amusing and harmless, their continued existence on the books raises important questions about the efficiency and responsiveness of Maryland’s legal system. As society evolves and values change, it is crucial for lawmakers to regularly review and update laws to ensure they remain relevant and serve the best interests of the people.
Until then, Maryland residents can take solace in the fact that these dumb laws are unlikely to be enforced, but their presence serves as a reminder of the importance of legal reform and the need for a more dynamic and adaptable legal system.