Your Anatole France quote reminds me of the rash of local ordinances that are lately being enacted.We get all this hype about how great our economy is and how "the American People" have never had it better.
So how come Berkely, CA passes an ordinance that makes it a crime to have your head touching the sidewalk? How come there's an ordinance that forbids two dogs from being within 10 feet of one another. (yes, even puppies-some of the homeless like/need companionship).
I live in a smaller community where town councils have passed ordinances forbidding people from sleeping in their trucks. A homeless acquaintance is now in jail serving 180 days for being drunk within his parked vehical. (Well, he'll be out of the rain for the season - welcome to our new social safety net - the police station - now that welfare has "ended" and no need for social workers.
It would be an interesting study to collect data on the number and/or rate of growth of such poverty generated laws designed to protect the "more advantaged" from the rudeness of reality....
bill (in bitter mode)
None.
