1.
In which U.S. state is it illegal to have two kids out of wedlock?
Correct Answer
C. Mississippi
Explanation
Mississippi enacted a law in 2013, making it illegal to have more than one illegitimate child, and the second one constitutes a misdemeanor punishable by fines or jail time. Despite its controversial nature, Mississippi lawmakers justified it as an issue of morality.
2.
In what year did Washington State prohibit buying mattresses on Sundays?
Correct Answer
C. 1909
Explanation
Washington State enacted a law in 1909, prohibiting the purchase of mattresses on Sundays. Although repealed in 1966, the law reflected old-fashioned values that discouraged certain activities, including mattress shopping, on a day traditionally reserved for attending church.
3.
Where is it illegal to pour salt on the highway, and why was the law enacted?
Correct Answer
B. Hermosa Beach, California
Explanation
In Hermosa Beach, California, a law enacted in 2012 makes it illegal to pour salt on the highway. The rationale is to avoid environmental risks and potential damage to pavement, even though the town rarely experiences snowfall, making the law seem unnecessary.
4.
In which California city is it illegal to wear cowboy boots unless you own at least two cows?
Correct Answer
C. Blythe
Explanation
Blythe, California, takes cowboy boots seriously, making it illegal to wear them unless you own at least two cows. This law reflects the historical association of cowboy boots with cattle wrangling, enforcing a practical rather than a fashion-oriented use in Blythe.
5.
In San Diego, what is the deadline for taking down Christmas lights to avoid fines?
Correct Answer
B. February 1st
Explanation
San Diego has a law, enacted in 2012, requiring residents to take down Christmas lights by February 2nd to avoid fines of up to $250. This law emphasizes timely holiday cleanup, although it doesn't specify regulations for lights related to other holidays like Valentine's Day or Easter.
6.
In which Oregon town is it illegal to practice any form of the "occult arts"?
Correct Answer
D. Yamhill
Explanation
In Yamhill, Oregon, a law dating back to 1867 makes it illegal to practice any form of the "occult arts," including fortune-telling, astrology, and other practices considered unsound and unscientific. The law categorically prohibits activities such as clairvoyance, mesmerism, and spiritualism, reflecting a historical perspective on these practices.
7.
In which U.S. state is it forbidden to sell a car on a Sunday?
Correct Answer
B. Michigan
Explanation
Michigan enacted a law in 1953 prohibiting the sale of cars on Sundays, aligning with religious beliefs that designate Sunday for rest, family time, and church activities. This law reflects the influence of the Christian population in Michigan and their observance of Sunday as a day of religious significance and rest.
8.
In Billings, Montana, for what purpose can you legally buy or sell a rat?
Correct Answer
D. For feeding a reptile or bird of prey
Explanation
In Billings, Montana, a law prohibits buying or selling a rat for any purpose other than feeding a reptile or bird of prey. This law, perceived as hypocritical, singles out rats while not imposing similar restrictions on other pets like hamsters or guinea pigs. The law was reportedly a response to a hoarding situation, emphasizing the specific conditions under which rats can be acquired or sold in Billings.
9.
In which Nevada city is it illegal to sit down on public sidewalks?
Correct Answer
B. Reno
Explanation
Reno, Nevada, enacted a law in 1995 making it illegal to sit down on public sidewalks, emphasizing that sidewalks are for walking. The law considers sitting or lying down on sidewalks a threat to public safety. Exceptions are made for individuals in wheelchairs, participating in parades, or experiencing a medical emergency, providing limited circumstances where sitting on sidewalks is permissible.
10.
What "occult art" is illegal to practice in Yamhill, Oregon?
Correct Answer
D. All of the above
Explanation
In Yamhill, Oregon, any form of the "occult arts," including fortune-telling, astrology, phrenology, palmistry, clairvoyance, mesmerism, and spiritualism, is illegal to practice. The law, enacted in 1867, categorically prohibits activities considered unsound and unscientific, reflecting a historical stance against practices associated with the "occult."