Blue Laws Still Blocking Business

In many communities across the nation, blue laws written decades (and even centries) ago, are still blocking business today. The following stories are just a few instances a quick web search turned up:

Last March, a Texas judge upheld the state's blue law that requires car dealerships to close one day each weekend.

Retailers in Massachusetts broke the law if they chose to open on Thanksgiving last year.

In December, the Anderson, SC county council voted to allow early Sunday shopping. Just one month later, newly elected council members brought the blue laws back.

The Distilled Spirits Council sent out a release the Wednesday before the Super Bowl reminding residents of Georgia, Colordao and other states that they would not be able to buy liquor on Sunday because of blue laws banning alcohol sales.

As some municipalities work towards ending such archaic laws completely, others are rewriting regulations to balance the protection of holidays and Sundays with what consumers want. But blue laws are no longer supported by just those with religious interests.

These Sunday sales restrictions are now being backed by trade associations and labor groups. What was once meant to curb immoral activities on a day devoted to religious observances is now viewed by many as a way to provide a day of rest for retailers, employees and shoppers.

Are blue laws necessary today?

Join the discussion: Do you do business on Sunday?