Every state has its share of outdated or just plain bizarre laws. New Jersey is no exception. While these laws may seem absurd, they were often created to solve very specific issues of their time. Let’s delve into some of New Jersey’s more curious laws that are still on the books.
No Frowning in Bernards Township
In Bernards Township, frowning is against the law. While this law is not actively enforced, it has never been officially removed from the books. The origins of this law are murky, but it serves as a reminder that sometimes legislation takes a whimsical detour.
No Murder While Wearing a Bulletproof Vest
Believe it or not, it’s illegal to commit murder while wearing a bulletproof vest in New Jersey. This law seems oddly specific and redundant, considering that murder is already illegal. However, the legislation exists to add an additional layer of criminal penalty to such acts.
No Pickles on Sundays
In Trenton, it is illegal to throw a bad pickle in the street, and even more curiously, pickles are not to be consumed on Sundays. While this law seems preposterous today, it was initially put into place as a form of Sabbath observance.
No Beekeeping in a Commercial Zone
According to New Jersey law, beekeepers are not allowed to set up shop in a commercial zone. This law was likely put into place to avoid issues with customers getting stung while visiting businesses. Even so, with the increasing importance of urban agriculture, this law might be due for a revision.
No Pumping Your Own Gas
One of the most notorious laws in New Jersey is the ban on self-service gas stations. While not necessarily “stupid,” it’s unusual in a country where self-service is the norm. This law was enacted in 1949 to promote safety and create jobs, and despite numerous efforts to overturn it, the ban remains in place.
While these laws may seem ridiculous, they offer a fascinating glimpse into the social and historical context in which they were created. So the next time you find yourself in New Jersey, remember to smile, leave your bulletproof vest at home, and let the attendant pump your gas. You’ll be following the law, however peculiar it may be.