'BLUE LAWS'Sunday restrictions hurt free markets
So here we are in 2004 with a bill before the Legislature that might overturn the "blue laws" against selling cars or booze on Sunday. Believe it or not, the very people who peddle cars and booze seem to be those most opposed to the change. Several went on record in Ryan Morgan's Feb. 9 story ("Louisville lawmaker challenges 'blue laws'," page 3A) against the repeal of these laws.
While I respect the will of any worker or shop owner to keep a business closed on Sunday, I expect them to respect me. If I want to shop for a car or beer at my convenience on Sunday, who should have the right to pass a law to prevent it? I will shop at a business that provides the services I need on the days that I need them. I will refuse to shop at a store that lobbies against my right to purchase what I want, when I want. I would rather shop Thursday at a store closed by choice on Sunday than patronize any business that lobbied against my rights and interfered with my right to free trade. And who should have the right to prevent any enterprising business people from selling such a product at my convenience?
Think for a moment about your concept of the free republic we live in versus Cuba or the former Soviet Union. In which one would you expect to find laws regarding the times and days you were allowed to engage in commerce? Blue laws violate both common sense and free markets. Their sole purpose is to interfere with the rights of consumers and would-be business people. Their time has long past, so let's please be rid of them.
ANTHONY BUBB, Erie
Boulder Daily Camera, Open Forum 2/13/04