Have you seen those signs at the Oceanfront in Virginia Beach, the ones that make it clear cursing isn't welcome?
They're not kidding: Swearing in public is a misdemeanor in Virginia.
A bill in the General Assembly that could have decriminalized swearing in public died Wednesday.
Del. Michael J. Webert, R-Fauquier County, introduced HB 1978, which could make cursing in public perfectly legal. A public hearing on the bill took place Wednesday afternoon.
"If any person profanely curses or swears or is intoxicated in public ... he shall be deemed guilty of a Class 4 misdemeanor," the law says.
What's the punishment? A fine of up to $250. Which words are banned? The state code doesn't specify.
Webert introduced the same bill last year, but it was tabled in a subcommittee meeting.
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