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10 Weird Laws In Tennessee That Will Get You Laughing

Tennessee just like other states has a handful of weird laws. These range from laws making it illegal for frogs to croak past 11.00 pm to laws making it illegal to share ice cream cones. While many laws are intended to maintain order and protect public safety, some of Tennessee’s statutes are so odd and antiquated that they will leave you wondering. So, let’s take a trip through the Volunteer State and explore the top 10 weirdest and funniest laws that are still on the books in Tennessee.

1. It is illegal to catch fish with your bare hands or with a lasso

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In Tennessee, only traditional fishing methods such as using fishing rods or nets are allowed. Catching fish with bare hands sends electrical shocks to catfish. This in turn could not only kill them but also destroy their eggs. Hence the need to stick to traditional methods of fishing.

2. In Nashville, it is illegal to roller skate on the sidewalk

This law was enacted in the 1960s. while roller skating on the sidewalk can be common, more often than not people can get hurt in the process. Hence this law not only reduces congestion on the sidewalks but also lifts liability in case a person gets hurt roller skating on public sidewalks.

Anyone who goes ahead to roller skate on sidewalks cannot sue the state for negligence where the paths are not well maintained. Further, he/she may find himself giving a fine or facing jail time.

Check out these 15 Weird Laws to be aware of in Ohio.

3. In Dyersburg, it is against the law to use artificial sweeteners

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This is categorically in the preparation of pastries. This law was enacted in the early 1900s to protect the sugar industry in the area. This is because artificial sweeteners are derivatives of other compounds that are not sugar. Artificial sweeteners have zero calories. This led a lot of people to start using artificial sweeteners which almost led to the collapse of the sugar industry hence the enactment of this law.

4. It is illegal to share your Netflix password in Tennessee

In an effort to prevent piracy, Tennessee has a law that prohibits the sharing of online streaming service passwords without proper authorization. Many people have struggled to come up with works of art.

While some have knowledge of intellectual property rights, others do not. This is why piracy is rampant. However, Tennessee has made it illegal to share Netflix passwords to reduce piracy and ensure Netflix gets value for money.

Read more about these 55weird laws you can find in US.

5. In Memphis, it is illegal for frogs to croak after 11:00 PM

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This unusual law was enacted in the 1800s to prevent noise pollution and disturbance of the peace. While the intentions might be reasonable, the enforcement of this law is the big question. What happens if a frog croaks after 11.00pm is the big question? However, as the title indicates these are the weird laws in Tennessee that will leave you shocked, laughing maybe.

6. In Fayetteville, it is illegal to show movies that depict police officers being ill treated

This includes being struck, beaten, or treated in an offensive manner. Police officers hold an important office especially in ensuring that laws are enforced. Hence the term law enforcement officers.

To ensure the smooth operation of this role, police officers have some deemed powers which has to maintained in the public eye. Depicting them being struck or beaten makes them seem unable to do their jobs. This law maintains their public image and respect.

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7. It is illegal to dye a duckling blue and offer it for sale

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This is unless you are selling more than six ducklings at once. Coloring of ducklings was common during the Easter period. The birds are dyed by spray painting. However, this can harm the health and wellbeing of such animals. The purpose of this law therefore, was to protect animals, specifically ducklings from being mishandled and mistreated.

8. It is illegal to share your ice cream cone with a road-tripping friend in Tennessee

Practically speaking, sharing an ice cream cone with someone who is driving may distract them. The obvious consequences of distracting a driver is a high likelihood of accidents or breaking some traffic rules. This law was enacted to cure this mischief. As it is well known, prevention is better than cure. Ensure your road safety you can eat your ice cream on arrival.

9. It is illegal to wrestle a bear in Tennessee

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At some point in time, bears were part of professional wrestling. However, before taking part, the bears were declawed and muzzled to prevent accidents and injuries. While this was hugely enjoyed, animal rights activists considered this to be a bad practice.

Some reasons they cited include the fact that the bears are taken out of their natural habitats, they are forced to engage in unnatural behavior and this amounts to physical and mental harassment and abuse. This law was therefore enacted to protect bears.

10. It is illegal for more than 8 women to live in the same house

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Back in the days, there were a lot of brothels. People housed women in brothels for the purposes of making money. It was a whole business. The government had to do something about it.

In its efforts to reduce and eliminate brothels in the state, this law was enacted. The law made it illegal for more than 8 women to live in the same house. Where this happened, it raised an assumption that a brothel was being run and one could face jail time.

It is important to remember that some of these laws may have had a justification when they were passed. For instance, it may have been the goal of laws like the one against driving while intoxicated is important for public safety. Overall, despite the fact that many of these strange laws in Tennessee may seem absurd and humorous, they provide insight into the state’s distinct history and culture.

Check out these 20 Unbelievably Weird Laws in North Carolina.