Nearly everyone has seen those reports or other posts regarding humorous state laws. I always chuckle when I see something like that. My first thought is "do authorities actual prosecute for those violations?"
Recently, I searched the Oklahoma statutes looking for some laws on another topic, and came across a few gems of outdated criminal laws in Oklahoma’s statutes.
You can find them beginning at 21 O.S. § 901. These statutes, listed under the generic title of "Crimes Against Religion and Conscience", impose monetary penalties on violators. The crimes, anything from profane use of Jesus Christ to "sabbath-breaking" to selling cars on Sunday gets punished.
Surprisingly, the ACLU and other anti-religious groups, haven’t challenged the constitutionality of these statutes. It’s likely too that no prosecutor is going to risk enforcing these statutory provisions, knowing full-well they’ll result in massive lawsuits.
What does surprise me is that the auto dealers unions haven’t challenged 21 O.S. § 918 for it’s apparent violations of equal protection.
While I believe in, and practice, a "holy day," arguably these laws are outdated and unenforceable. I would love to see the result of a an action where a police agency or county prosecutor tries to enforce these archaic laws.
Oh, by the way, no more cussing in front of women, children, or in public places because it’ll cost $100 or 30 days in jail.
For a good laugh, check out all of the laws beginning with 21 O.S. § 901 through 21 O.S. § 919.
As a final note, notice that these laws are compressed between some of the more arguably severe laws, like kidnapping, child abuse and illegal gambling. I think they’re hidden for a reason.
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