7 Weird Laws in Ohio That Are Surprisingly Still on the Books

Why this law exists

Almost certainly a remnant of a broader animal cruelty ordinance. The specific mention of fish is unusual and likely reflects overly broad drafting rather than a specific incident.

Why this law exists

A surviving Blue Law rooted in religious observance of the Sabbath. Most Ohio Blue Laws were repealed in the 20th century, but the Sunday car sales ban has survived multiple legislative challenges, partly due to lobbying from dealership owners who prefer a uniform day off.

Why this law exists

Legal historians believe Ohio copied hunting and fishing regulations from coastal states without filtering out marine-specific provisions. The whale hunting language was likely never noticed because it was irrelevant from day one.

Why this law exists

Part of a broader set of early 20th century ordinances regulating the behavior of intoxicated persons in public establishments. The specificity of "fish and chips" likely reflects the prevalence of that dish in Columbus taverns at the time.

Why this law exists

Ohio's OVI (Operating a Vehicle Impaired) statute broadly defines "vehicle" to include animals used for transportation. This is not unique to Ohio — many states have similar provisions dating from the era when horses were the primary mode of transport.

Why this law exists

Passed as an animal welfare measure after the practice of dyeing chicks pink and blue for Easter became popular in the mid-20th century. The dye was often toxic and the animals frequently died within days of purchase.

Why this law exists

Anti-dueling provisions were common in 19th century state constitutions as dueling was a genuine social problem among politicians and gentlemen. Ohio's provision was never removed from the constitution despite dueling becoming essentially nonexistent.