So, this week I happened upon an article that looked at some things that are outlawed everywhere but here in the good old U.S. of A. I think some might surprise you, as they did me!

•   Cannabis, U.S. vs. Netherlands

America’s still on the fence, but Amsterdam rolls out the green carpet. High time for a policy change? Honestly, I’m probably in the minority here but I don’t think this is a good idea. Yes, I suppose I am something of a prude / dork.

•   Pet ferrets, California vs. the world

Apparently, California fears ferrets so much lawmakers made them illegal. Elsewhere, they’re just slinky pets. Hmm. I don’t love them but I certainly wouldn’t discriminate against the furry little critters.

•   Public drinking, U.S. vs. Germany

Strolling through Berlin with a brew is just another Tuesday. Try that in NYC, and it’s ticket time. So, what do you think: cheers to freedom, or nah? As a nondrinker, I probably don’t even deserve to weigh in here but the bottom line is, I don’t like the idea of telling other people how to live their lives, capisce?

•   Jaywalking, U.S. vs. UK

In America, jaywalking is the walk of shame. In the UK, it’s just walking. Who knew crossing the street could be considered so rebellious?

•   Drinking absinthe, U.S. vs. Czech Republic

America fears the Green Fairy, but in Prague, it’s just another spirit.

•   Hitchhiking, U.S. vs. New Zealand

America sees a thumb and thinks of danger. New Zealand sees adventure. I was taught that hitchhiking is a no-no. Ditto for picking up hitchhikers.

•   Plastic bags, U.S. vs. Rwanda

America debates, Rwanda acts. Plastic bags are a no-go there. Ever thought your shopping apparatus would be so controversial? Hmm.

•   Raw milk, U.S. vs. France

In America, raw milk is practically a narcotic. In France, it’s just breakfast. Got milk … vending machines? If I’m being honest here, the concept of raw milk sounds kind of icky. And not necessarily safe.

•   Online gambling, U.S. vs. UK

America can’t decide, while the UK bets on open and regulated wagers. Fancy a bet on American indecision?

•   Dual citizenship, U.S. vs. the “Chill Countries”

America taxes you worldwide. Other places, like Canada, let you globe-trot without the IRS on your back.

Now the unique rules by a few states that I found interesting.

•   Delaware, no trick-or-treating on Sunday

In Rehoboth Beach, when Oct.31 falls on a Sunday, you’re not allowed to trick-or-treat, Halloween or not. Instead, it’s rescheduled for the day before.

•   Florida, no internet cafes

In 2013, Florida Gov. Rick Scott signed House Bill 155, which was aimed at cracking down on illegal gambling in internet cafes. But the law also had the effect of banning internet cafes in general (and resulted in an immediate shutdown of 1,000 internet cafes). The law is still in effect, although these establishments keep popping up everywhere. In most cases, they claim they aren’t engaging in the gambling the law was intended to prohibit.

•   Hawaii, no texting and walking

A ban on pedestrians looking at mobile phones or texting while crossing the street took effect in Honolulu earlier this year. Fines start at $15 and go as high as $99 for multiple violations. Laugh all you want, but texting and walking causes 11,000 injuries per year. It could soon be banned in other states. So there!

Kimerer is a columnist who’s happy to have been “born in the USA.” Contact her at pkimerer@zoominternet.net.