Spitting In El Paso? Better Know The Law

Spitting is not exactly the classiest thing you can do but here in El Paso, if you feel you must, there are a couple of things you should know.

First of all, let's be clear ... spitting is kinda disgusting and I think I speak for everyone when I say; let's keep it to ourselves. Ok?

In the bathroom, while hidden behind a wall, in the privacy of your own home; anywhere but in front of other people. Whether you know them or not. No degree of closeness allows for this.

The first thing you should know about spitting in El Paso is that around here ... and everywhere else in the lone star state ... spitting is illegal in some areas.

It shall be unlawful for any person to spit on any sidewalk, or on the floor or wall of any public building, or to spit in or upon any part of any taxicab, bus or other public vehicle carrying passengers for hire in the city. - source

If you are thinking about spitting ON someone, you not only need help, you could also get locked up. That's considered assault just like punching someone or whacking them on the head with a shovel.

Simple assault can get you up to one year in jail or a fine of up to $4,000. (In addition to the other guy kicking the crap out of you.) If you do it in retaliation to someone, you'll probably be fined $500.

If you have a communicable disease or spit on a cop or an elderly person, the penalties, (rightfully so), get worse. So, yeah ... don't.

In El Paso though, certain places, (like the bank or church for example), are cool with it. In fact the city not only allows it; they also have to give you something to do it in. Seriously ...

El Paso has a law on the books requiring spittoons in church, assembly halls, hotels, banks, stores, train depots, and saloons. Technically, they’re required “of a kind and number to efficiently contain expectorations into them,” so even just a single spittoon might do these days. - arnolditkin.com

Who knew??