Recent comments in /f/washingtondc

washingtonpost OP t1_jbtiyuv wrote

Reply to 5 archaic D.C. laws still technically on the books after crime bill is nixed by washingtonpost

From reporter Peter Hermann:

When D.C. embarked on a years-long process to overhaul its criminal code, one of the things city council members set out to do was remove from the books antiquated laws that are no longer relevant to modern society. But with Congress moving to nix the overhaul — concerned over other provisions, like the lessening of statutory maximum penalties for carjacking — some of the outmoded measures technically remain in effect.

Many of the laws are no longer applicable, and they are definitely not being enforced. Some were already stricken decades ago — like a ban on flying kites, which was scrapped in 1970. Others, with roots dating back to England in the 1700s, have been rendered moot by court rulings. Still others have been revised through subsequent legislation, but the original language was never removed from the official record.

Curse in public

In 1892, Congress criminalized cursing in public in the District, lumping it in with the crime of vagrancy. It made it unlawful “for any person or persons to curse, or make use of any profane language or any indecent or obscene words.”

Courts in subsequent years have taken a far different approach to free speech. The fine 131 years ago: $20. The same law also equates making an obscene gesture with the crime of indecent exposure, both punishable with fines up to $250.

Ride ‘any animal of the horse kind’ too fast

When cars weren’t so prevalent, it was illegal to ride “any animal of the horse kind” in D.C. at “a rate of speed exceeding eight miles per hour.” It was also illegal to turn a corner with a horse going more than 4 mph.

Whether the law remains technically in force, though, is somewhat unclear. Notes from the commission that reviewed D.C.'s code as part of the overhaul say it may have been repealed, but because the group couldn’t confirm that, the overhaul would formally remove it.

Read about more of these laws here, and skip the paywall with email registration: https://www.washingtonpost.com/dc-md-va/2023/03/10/archaic-dc-laws-criminal-code/?utm_campaign=wp_main&utm_medium=social&utm_source=reddit.com

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202reddit OP t1_jbr2l6g wrote

Reply to comment by MoreCleverUserName in New car inspection question by 202reddit

You are correct! It didn't look like the regular inspection sticker so I didn't consider that it was still a window sticker (and, in my defense, unlike the registration sticker it doesn't have the instructions on it). Thank you!

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doublejfishfry t1_jbqz8mi wrote

Reply to New car inspection question by 202reddit

The inspection sticker will be installed when you get it inspected at the DMV inspection center on Half St SW (assuming you choose that option) it’s super easy. It goes on the bottom right hand side of your windshield. Get rid of that VA inspection sticker.

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202reddit OP t1_jbqx9ig wrote

Reply to comment by alizadk in New car inspection question by 202reddit

I did not receive one with my registration packet. The one on the car was from VA but was where registration sticker went so I had to remove. Are you saying I should have received one in mail with registration?

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