Legal Definitions - Sunday law

A Sunday law, also commonly referred to as a blue law, is a statute that restricts or prohibits certain commercial, recreational, or other activities on Sundays. Historically, these laws were rooted in religious traditions that designated Sunday as a day of rest or worship, aiming to promote public morality, ensure a common day off for workers, or simply maintain a quiet atmosphere. While many Sunday laws have been repealed or significantly relaxed over time, some remain in effect in various jurisdictions, often pertaining to retail sales, alcohol consumption, or specific forms of entertainment.

• Example 1 (Retail Restrictions): In certain parts of the United States, it is still illegal for car dealerships to open for business on Sundays. This means that potential buyers cannot visit showrooms, test drive vehicles, or complete purchases on that day, even if they wish to.

  Explanation: This is a Sunday law because it specifically prohibits a commercial activity (car sales) from taking place on Sunday, reflecting a historical desire to limit commerce on that particular day.

• Example 2 (Alcohol Sales Limitations): A city ordinance states that grocery stores and convenience stores are not permitted to sell alcoholic beverages before 1:00 PM on Sundays. While alcohol sales are allowed later in the day, and on other days of the week, the morning hours on Sunday are restricted.

  Explanation: This example illustrates a Sunday law by imposing a specific time-based restriction on the sale of alcohol, an activity frequently targeted by blue laws, during a portion of Sunday.

• Example 3 (Recreational Prohibitions): A state regulation prohibits hunting of any kind within its borders on Sundays. Hunters are permitted to engage in their sport on weekdays and Saturdays, but the law explicitly designates Sunday as a day when all hunting activities must cease.

  Explanation: This demonstrates a Sunday law by restricting a recreational activity (hunting) exclusively on Sundays, aligning with the traditional intent of such laws to set aside Sunday for different types of activities or rest.