9 Things That You Think Are Illegal But Aren’t in ID, WA, and UT

Everyone has broken the law at some point. It can be running a red light on accident, speeding, or perhaps you stole something without meaning to because it didn't get scanned. None of the crimes listed will end you up in jail, but you typically feel guilty knowing that you broke the law. Most people avoid doing illegal things or perhaps things that feel like they are but aren't. There are many things that society thinks are illegal, but aren't despite what everyone says. Here are some things that you might think are illegal in Idaho, Washington, and Utah, but are legal.

Counting Cards is Not Illegal

Despite what Vegas wants you to believe, there is no law against counting cards. While you can't be arrested for counting cards, you can still be kicked out or banned from a casino if the property declares you as a card counter. Returning to the property after being banned, could result in your arrest, but counting cards will not.

It is Not Illegal to Drive Barefoot

Most people grow up thinking they have to drive with shoes on and only drive barefoot if moving their car in and out of the driveway or maybe leaving the pool or the beach. While it is not recommended and not comfortable, driving barefoot is not against the law. Shoes are a good idea, but if you prefer nothing on your feet, you are good to do so.

It is Legal to Give Cops the Finger

Many have wanted to give an officer of the law the finger once or twice, but doing so always seems like a bad idea. Legally, you can give a cop the middle finger, but it is highly recommended that you keep the finger down. While the gesture may not get you in legal trouble, if the wrong words follow the action, the officer will likely not have patience with you and will determine it is disorderly conduct. If tempted, it would be wise to not test this theory.

Avoiding Taxes is Legal

Evading taxes is not legal. Nearly everyone has to file taxes, but avoiding your taxes will not get you in legal trouble in Idaho, Washington, or Utah. You will always have to pay, but there are ways to lower your tax bill and avoid paying certain ones by doing so. This is why it is a good idea to have an expert help you with filing, so you can save money and avoid certain taxes.

You Can Discuss Wages With Coworkers in ID, WA, and UT

Many employers tell coworkers that they are not allowed to discuss their pay with other coworkers. Bosses strike fear into employees by making it seem like they are breaking the law if they do so, but that is not the case. While companies can enforce this rule, they can't do much if you decide to have this 'forbidden' conversation. It may make some coworkers feel worse about their pay and others better, but legally you can discuss wages. 

Killing a Praying Mantis is Not Against the Law

Praying mantis are some of the coolest bugs in the world, and finding them is not easy to do. They are typically found during the summer, and can be spotted around Idaho, but if you find one are you able to kill it? Why you would want to is another question, but if you do kill one it is ok. Cops will not show up and accuse you of killing one, but it is recommended that you leave them alone. They kill other bugs and are fun to watch as well. If possible, move one to your garden so you can watch it throughout the season. 

You Can Remove a Mattress Tag

Despite what the tags say, you can remove the tag from a mattress. It may seem silly, but there are many people who refuse to remove the tag because they are led to believe that it is against the law or there are repercussions for doing so. Do not worry, it is ok to remove it if you feel the need to.

Women Can Go Topless in Utah, But Not in Idaho and Washington

This is a fairly new one, but women in Utah can legally walk around topless, although be prepared for stares and perhaps unwanted attention. There are actually six states in the United States where women can legally walk around topless, with them being Colorado, Wyoming, Oklahoma, Kansas, New Mexico, and Utah. If you live in Idaho or Washington, keep your tops on, and instead head to one of these six states.

Turning Left on Red is Legal in Idaho and Washington, But not in Utah

Most people know that when you pull up to a red light and are turning right, as long as there is no sign saying not to, or no traffic, you can turn right. Turning left is typically banned, but in Idaho and Washington, you can turn left on a red, so long as it is off of a one-way street. You can not pull up to any intersection and do so, but if you are going from a one-way street to another, then you can do so. The only other states that allow this law are California, Alaska, Michigan, and Oregon. 

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Many of the things above feel illegal and wrong, and your brain has been taught to not do them, but going forward you now know that you can get away with more than you thought. Some of these things are ok, and others, while legal, should not be done. It is up to you how you decide to use this new information.