By John Q. Hosedrinker 
A lawsuit filed by officials in Paramus, New Jersey, alleges that the American Dream mall is violating a Bergen County law by allowing the sale of nonessential items on Sundays. This law, rooted in religious tradition, restricts Sunday retail sales in the county, with the intention of providing relief from traffic and noise. Paramus officials argue that American Dream, which initially promised to adhere to the law, is now giving itself an unfair advantage over other businesses by opening on Sundays. The mall’s management, however, contends that the blue laws do not apply due to the mall’s location on state-owned property and has called the lawsuit a political stunt.
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New Jersey’s massive American Dream mall is facing a lawsuit stemming from the sale of clothes on a Sunday. This legal challenge, brought by officials in Paramus, a town near the mall, accuses American Dream of violating a long-standing county law. This isn’t some newfangled regulation; these “blue laws” have been on the books in New Jersey for ages, originating from religious roots that aimed to restrict commerce on Sundays.
The history of these laws is interesting. While their origins were religious, the modern justification often centers on providing a break from the bustling week. The argument goes that in a heavily populated region like the one surrounding New York City, a day off from shopping offers a welcome respite for local residents, reducing both traffic and the general noise of commerce.
But is this really a good thing? Many people find the whole idea bizarre. They question why you can’t buy something as basic as clothing on a Sunday, especially considering the various justifications someone may have for needing to do so. Some people can’t believe blue laws are still in place. It’s like stepping back in time. The restrictions on Sunday shopping seem out of sync with modern life, especially when you can go to the movies or buy other non-essentials.
The arguments on both sides are strong. For those in favor, the Sunday break from shopping provides a sense of calm and a day for family. People who oppose the laws see them as archaic and an overreach of religious influence. They view these blue laws as oppressive and unconstitutional, violating the separation of church and state.
The specifics of these laws are quite narrow. The current laws in New Jersey originated in 1956. They primarily affect Bergen County, the only county in the state to still enforce such restrictions. This leaves a large section of consumers confused and frustrated.
A common sentiment is: why are you stopping someone from buying clothing? It just seems a little silly. The debate highlights the clash between those who want a break from constant consumerism and those who see the laws as an infringement on their freedom and choices. Those who find the laws restrictive see it as nothing more than a way to get people to go to church.
The impact of these laws extends beyond individual shoppers. Some believe they stifle economic opportunities for businesses and limit consumer choice. The argument is: six days is more than enough, and businesses don’t need to be open seven days a week. Others bring up the traffic in the area, saying that it is helpful for keeping the traffic to a minimum.
So, where does this leave the American Dream mall? The mall is a huge draw and a major retail destination. Whether this legal challenge leads to a change in the law, and a possible end to Sunday shopping restrictions, remains to be seen. But the situation does highlight the ongoing tension between tradition and progress, religious influence, and personal freedoms.