<P> In the United States, judges have defended blue laws "in terms of their secular benefit to workers", holding that "the laws were essential to social well - being". Chief Justice Stephen Johnson Field, with regard to Sunday blue laws, stated: </P> <P> Its requirement is a cessation from labor . In its enactment, the legislature has given the sanction of law to a rule of conduct, which the entire civilized world recognizes as essential to the physical and moral well - being of society . Upon no subject is there such a concurrence of opinion, among philosophers, moralists and statesmen of all nations, as on the necessity of periodical cessation from labor . One day in seven is the rule, founded in experience and sustained by science...The prohibition of secular business on Sunday is advocated on the ground that by it the general welfare is advanced, labor protected, and the moral and physical well - being of society promoted . </P> <P> Many states prohibit selling alcohol for on and off - premises sales in one form or another on Sundays at some restricted time, under the idea that people should be in church on Sunday morning, or at least not drinking . </P> <P> Another feature of blue laws in the United States restricts the purchase of particular items on Sundays . Some of these laws restrict the ability to buy cars, groceries, office supplies, and housewares among other things . Though most of these laws have been relaxed or repealed in most states, they are still enforced in some other states . </P>

Why can't you buy alcohol on sunday before noon