Americans love to voice their opinions, especially when it comes to what should or shouldn’t be allowed. From minor annoyances to major societal issues, there’s no shortage of things people think should be against the law.
In this blog, I’ll share 16 things that many Americans believe should become illegal. These ideas come straight from everyday conversations, social media debates, and passionate discussions nationwide.
Slow left-lane driving
Drivers who hog the left lane at slow speeds are a major source of frustration. This practice is already illegal in some states, but many want stricter enforcement. Slow left-lane driving is blamed for causing traffic jams and road rage incidents. Some suggest automatic fines for drivers who don’t move over when faster traffic approaches.
Fake news and misinformation
The spread of false information online has become a huge concern. Many Americans want stricter laws to punish those who create and share fake news. They argue that misinformation threatens democracy and public health. Some propose fines or even jail time for repeat offenders.
Excessive packaging
The amount of plastic and waste from product packaging is seen as environmentally harmful. Many want laws to force companies to use less packaging or more eco-friendly materials. This could help reduce pollution and waste in landfills. Some suggest taxing companies based on the amount of non-recyclable packaging they use.
Robocalls and spam calls
Unwanted phone calls are a daily annoyance for many Americans. Despite existing laws, people still receive tons of spam and scam calls. Stricter penalties and better technology to block these calls are in high demand. Some want phone companies to be held responsible for allowing these calls through.
Hidden fees
Surprise charges on bills and purchases frustrate many consumers. People want all fees to be clearly stated upfront before any transaction, including everything from concert tickets to cable bills. Some suggest fining companies that use deceptive pricing practices.
Non-recyclable plastics
Single-use plastics are seen as a major environmental threat. Many want to ban items like plastic straws, bags, and packaging that can’t be recycled. This could help reduce pollution in oceans and landfills. Some cities have already started implementing such bans.
Excessive noise pollution
Loud noises from construction, traffic, and neighbors bother many people. Some want stricter laws on when and how much noise is allowed in residential areas. This includes limits on lawn equipment, car stereos, and late-night activities. Fines for noise violations could increase the quality of life in many neighborhoods.
Unfair tipping practices
Many people see the tipping system in restaurants as unfair. Some want to ban the practice of paying servers less than minimum wage. Others want to make tipping mandatory or include it in the price of meals. This could ensure fair pay for service workers and reduce customer stress.
Prescription drug ads
Many Americans are tired of seeing constant medication commercials. They argue these ads encourage overmedication and ignore doctor advice. Some want to ban direct-to-consumer drug advertising altogether. This practice is already illegal in most other countries.
Excessive phone use in public
People are fed up with others glued to their phones in social settings. This behavior is seen as rude and disconnected from real-life interactions. Many believe it harms relationships and social skills, especially in younger generations. Some even suggest fines for using phones during meals or in certain public spaces.
Loud chewing
The sound of someone smacking their lips or chomping loudly drives many people crazy. This pet peeve is so common that some want it banned in public spaces. They argue it’s disrespectful and ruins the dining experience for others. Some even claim it causes physical discomfort due to a condition called misophonia.
Extreme photoshopping in ads
Heavily edited images in advertising are seen as misleading and harmful. Many want laws requiring labels on photoshopped images or limits on editing. This could help improve body image issues, especially among young people. Some countries have already implemented similar laws.
Puppy mills
The practice of mass-breeding dogs in poor conditions angers many animal lovers. Some want to make it illegal to sell dogs from large commercial breeders. This could encourage adoption from shelters and improve animal welfare. Stricter regulations on breeding facilities are also suggested.
Excessive CEO pay
The huge gap between executive and worker pay bothers many Americans. Some want laws limiting how much more CEOs can make compared to average employees. This could help address income inequality and improve worker conditions. Some suggest tying CEO pay to company performance or worker wages.
Planned obsolescence
Products designed to break or become outdated quickly frustrate many consumers. Some want laws requiring companies to make longer-lasting products. This could reduce waste and save people money in the long run. Fines for companies that intentionally shorten product lifespans are suggested.
Data collection without consent
Many are concerned about how companies collect and use personal data. Some want stricter laws on what data can be collected and how it’s used. This could protect privacy and prevent data breaches. Giving users more control over their personal information is a common demand.
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