America is full of laws and regulations that make sense to Americans but sound strange, even absurd, to non-Americans. Some of these laws are so weird that tourists can’t believe they’re there. Imagine being ticketed for having your pants too low or not being allowed to collect rainwater! Here are some of the weirdest rules that Americans abide by that the world doesn’t quite understand.
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Banning Kinder Surprise Eggs
Kinder Surprise chocolate eggs are not allowed to be sold in the US because there is a prohibition against inserting “non-nutritive objects” into food. Because the chocolate egg holds a small toy inside, it’s dangerous and can cause choking. For tourists, banning a popular children’s treat found around the world can feel extreme.
Drinking Age of 21
Most countries permit alcohol consumption at 18 or younger. But in the United States, the drinking age is 21. That statute shocks foreigners, considering Americans are allowed to vote and enter the military at 18. To foreigners, it is an oddly long wait for something that’s already legal mostly everywhere else.
Tipping in Restaurants
Tipping in the US is practically obligatory. The average US citizen leaves a tip of 15-20% of the total bill in most places, including restaurants. This is because servers work at a low hourly rate. They cannot survive on these wages alone. To people from countries where waiters get their whole pay, this practice can seem strange and unfair.
Obsession with “No Shoes, No Shirt, No Service”
Most American stores and restaurants refuse to let people inside unless they’re wearing shoes or a shirt. This rule can appear strange to those in more laid-back beach communities. But in the United States it’s accepted as a basic protocol for hygiene and courtesy in public.
Sales Tax Added at Checkout
In many countries, the tax is added to the shelf price. In America, though, sales tax is charged at the counter. This comes as a surprise to visitors, who might not expect the final cost to exceed the price advertised. This makes budgeting a little difficult for first time visitors to the U.S.
Fines for Sagging Pants
In several cities and states, it’s illegal to wear pants that hang too low. If your pants expose too much of your underwear or flesh, you could be fined or imprisoned. This kind of dress regulation might feel uncomfortable and intrusive for outsiders.
No Alcohol Sales on Sunday Mornings
Most US states have “blue laws” prohibiting alcohol on Sundays, especially early in the morning. It is a way of honoring Sunday as a holiday of rest or a day of worship. It’s quite unsettling to outsiders that such laws persist in the 21st century.
Banning Kids from Playing Outside Alone
Parents in some regions of the US can get in trouble if they let their kids run loose outside (without supervision). The regulation is supposed to guard children. But it seems like a bit much for someone coming from a place where kids are more free.
Laws on Collecting Rainwater
In a few states in the US, rainwater collection is illegal. That’s based on water rights laws where the state owns natural resources. People from countries with fewer water restrictions often find it odd that something as simple as collecting rain requires a permit in certain places.
Swearing in Public Parks
In some US states, it’s illegal to curse in a public park or public area. For example, in Mississippi, you might be fined or arrested for swearing in a park. This is a surprising law for foreigners living in nations where swearing is not a criminal offence.
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