(pic from Flickr user smaedli)

Beginning with a new year means a whole new set of laws going into effect all over the country. Since this story focuses just on the top 10, I should be somewhat flattered that three of them are here in Illinois, but after reading what they were....not so much. Here ya go...

10 Weird Laws That Took Effect On New Year’s Day 

In California, peace officers can no longer sleep with prison inmates.

In Kentucky, feral hogs can’t return to the wild.

In Illinois, culinary students can legally drink alcohol — but only if they agree to spit it out.

In California, it’s illegal to let a dog chase a bear or bobcat.

In California, film producers must consult a board-certified pediatrician before filming a newborn.

In Illinois, sex offenders can’t give out candy on Halloween, play Santa or dress up as the Easter Bunny.

In Florida, drivers can legally flash their lights at other cars to warn them of police speed traps.

In California, drivers can’t hang anything that obstructs their windshields.

In Illinois, the term “pedestrian” now includes in-line skaters.

In Florida, the term “motor vehicle” no longer includes swamp buggies.

Some of these are just disturbing, but I really don't know what to think of the 'in-line skater/pedestrian' law. I mean, what were in-line skaters considered before? Were there accidents happening out there involving them where motorized vehicle drivers were saying, 'Wow I am so sorry about that! If only you hadn't been wearing those in-line skates I could have recognized you as a pedestrian'?

-Shelly Knight