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Using Wikis to Catch Outdated and Bad Laws?

Posted by Cliff on from the better-society-through-judicious-application-of-technology dept.

Mick Ohrberg asks: "While listening to NPR this morning, I heard about the ridiculous law, passed in 1675, that orders the arrest of all American Indians entering Boston, and just now, 330 years later, is ready to be repealed. There are a LOT of really outdated and/or inappropriate laws out there; would an 'open' Wiki-style approach to law-making (with appropriate supervision, of course) be able to catch more of these 'bad' laws? Should the law-makers be able to keep track of all these laws, or are the number of laws simply too large for that relatively small group of people to keep track of? The more and more outdated copyright laws also come to mind as an area that could stand some more scrutiny."

3 of 137 comments (clear)

  1. The laws ARE open by MerlynEmrys67 · · Score: 3, Interesting
    There are a few strange building code laws, but by and large - for the price of publication - you too can get a full copy of the law as it exists on a given day.

    That said - this document would be HUGE and frankly no one will want to read it.

    I would love to run to become a congress critter with a sole platform of "I will not vote for any law that I can not read and understand". Unfortunately - I would have to vote against pretty much EVERY law being writen today. Of course the libertarian in me says this will be a good thing

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    I have mod points and I am not afraid to use them
  2. New laws more important than old ones by Trepalium · · Score: 4, Interesting
    Generally, more effort is put into making new laws rather than getting rid of old obsolete ones. The basic problem with repealing old laws is they become bikeshed type events with endless debate on things that don't really matter. Secondly, as a politician, no one will remember you for the laws you got rid of, only the ones you brought into existance.

    Also, keep in mind that laws that are not enforced might as well not exist. If they do get suddenly enforced, I believe a court may very well turn over any decision because of this selective enforcement.

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    I used up all my sick days, so I'm calling in dead.
    1. Re:New laws more important than old ones by mrami · · Score: 3, Interesting

      The problem with obsolete laws is that they can be used for blackmail by the state (an example of largesse). 1) Make a joke about that blowjob you got to an undercover cop. 2) Write an editorial recommending police cuts. 3) Wait for the arrest warrant...