No Smoking in Restaurants and Bars
Currently, laws in 29 U.S. states prohibit smoking in restaurants, and 25 states prohibit smoking in both restaurants and bars.
Drivers Cannot Send Text Messages
The United States is a nation on wheels, so there are more laws and regulations regarding driving than anything else. Drivers must strictly abide by driving and traffic rules; otherwise, they will certainly receive a ticket if caught by the police. In 2010, state laws in New Hampshire, Oregon, and Illinois stipulated that drivers cannot send text messages while driving. This means that out of the 50 U.S. states, 19 will have laws strictly prohibiting drivers from texting while driving, and 6 states strictly prohibit drivers from driving with one hand while using a mobile phone with the other.
No Firing Guns into the Air on New Year's Eve
It is legal for Americans to set off fireworks during the New Year, but celebrating by firing guns into the air is illegal. In the United States, firing a gun into the air to celebrate the New Year is a felony and can result in a one-year prison sentence; if the bullet injures someone, the sentence will be extended. If citizens see someone firing a gun into the air to celebrate the New Year, they must call 911.
Wife-Beaters Go to Jail
California's "Domestic Violence Victim Protection Act" stipulates that domestic violence suspects can no longer be released on bail at the discretion of the police department; they must be taken to jail and then tried by a judge. While in custody, non-U.S. citizen suspects will be issued a detainer by the immigration authorities. With two domestic violence cases, a Green Card can be revoked, and the individual will face deportation. Arguments between Chinese couples in the U.S., and even physical altercations, occur from time to time. While some may not consider hitting children a big deal, these are all viewed as domestic violence. Whether it is a husband hitting his wife, a wife hitting her husband, or parents hitting their children, once reported to the police, the consequences are as serious as described above.
No Gambling While Playing Mahjong
California's 2010 law restricting illegal gambling stipulates that participating in any form of illegal gambling, including betting on the outcome of sports matches, will be punished. This new law states that if the total amount of illegal gambling does not exceed $2,500, a fine of up to $250 can be imposed. If the total amount of illegal gambling exceeds $2,500, it is considered a misdemeanor and can be punishable by up to six months in prison. Operating an illegal casino is considered a felony and can be punishable by more than one year in prison. Even if friends and family play mahjong at home, if there is "money involved," it is illegal.
Providing Unlicensed Renovation Services Constitutes a Misdemeanor
A law that took effect in California on January 1, 2010, stipulates that providing renovation and construction services without a license is a misdemeanor. First-time offenders can be fined $5,000 or sentenced to 6 months in prison, with each subsequent offense adding another six months in prison and a fine of 20% of the total contract amount. Consumers can also refuse to pay for project costs on the grounds that the renovation and construction provider is unlicensed. A relatively high percentage of Chinese people in the U.S. own homes, and many rely on landscaping and interior renovation to make a living. However, some unlicensed Chinese operators can provide low-cost services, so they still have a market in the community. The new California law will put some Chinese people in a difficult position, but the Chinese are clever and will find other ways. Some are now considering using others' licenses as a shield, but this act will violate even stricter laws.
Restaurants Prohibited from Using Artificial Trans Fats
California was the first state to ban the use of artificial trans fats in restaurants starting in 2010. From January 1, restaurants, bakeries, and other retail food companies across the state are not allowed to sell foods containing trans fats. At the same time, it was stipulated that until January 2011, restaurants could use trans fats for frying and making cakes.
No Dog Racing
In Massachusetts, dog racing enthusiasts will have to find other forms of entertainment. Starting January 1, 2010, this activity, which had a 75-year tradition, became illegal.
No Sale of Replica Toy Guns
A new provision in Arkansas prohibits retailers from selling replica toy guns. However, replicas used for film and television production, BB guns, paintball guns, and replicas of firearms from before 1898 are exempt.
No Sale of Novelty Lighters
New laws in Nevada and Louisiana stipulate that novelty lighters are prohibited from sale. Lighters designed in the shapes of toys, cartoon characters, pistols, musical instruments, etc., are all prohibited from sale.
