12 Things That Were Legal in the ’70s But Are Unthinkable Now
In the 1970s, many everyday practices that would now be considered unsafe or unacceptable were legal.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 4 min read
The laws and norms of the 1970s often ignored health, safety, and individual rights. From smoking indoors to minimal child safety, the standards of that time reflected a very different view of personal responsibility and regulation. This list outlines 12 practices that were legally accepted then but are no longer tolerated.
1. Smoking in Hospitals
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Smoking was allowed inside hospitals, including in patient rooms and common areas. Cigarette use by doctors and visitors was seen as normal. No major restrictions existed to separate smoking from non-smoking spaces. Today, this would violate health laws and hospital policies in most countries.
2. No Seatbelt Laws
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Many states did not require seatbelts to be worn, and some vehicles did not have them in all seats. Seatbelts were available but not used by most people. Children often rode unrestrained, and adult passengers did not face penalties for not buckling up. Modern laws now mandate seatbelt use for safety and to reduce injury risks.
3. Leaded Gasoline
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Leaded gasoline was still widely used in cars despite growing evidence that it harmed human health. The lead released into the air affected brain development, especially in children. It also contaminated soil and water in urban areas. Due to these concerns, regulations eventually phased it out in most countries.
4. Kids Riding in the Front Seat
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Children were often allowed to sit in the front seat of vehicles, sometimes without any child restraint. Airbags had not yet been introduced, and child safety seats were not commonly used. This put children at higher risk during crashes. Laws now require age-appropriate seating and safety restraints.
5. Smoking on Airplanes
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Smoking was permitted during flights, including in airplane cabins and restrooms. Smoking and non-smoking areas were poorly separated, exposing many passengers to secondhand smoke. Flight attendants and non-smokers had little protection. These practices are now banned by most airlines and international aviation authorities.
6. Drinking and Driving (Sort Of)
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Several states allowed open alcohol containers in vehicles, and some did not strictly enforce driving under the influence laws. Drivers could legally consume alcohol while operating a vehicle under certain conditions. This contributed to higher rates of alcohol-related accidents. Legal limits on blood alcohol content and strict penalties are now standard.
7. No Childproof Packaging
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Household products, including medications and cleaning agents, often lacked safety features to prevent children from opening them. This led to many accidental poisonings and hospital visits. The Poison Prevention Packaging Act began to address this in the early 1970s, but implementation was gradual. Today, most such products require child-resistant packaging.
8. Lax Animal Cruelty Laws
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Animal welfare regulations were limited, and enforcement was often weak or inconsistent. Cruel practices in farming, entertainment, and breeding were not closely monitored. Investigations and penalties were rare. Current laws are stricter and aim to protect animals from neglect and abuse.
9. Corporal Punishment in Schools
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Physical punishment of students by teachers and school staff was legal and common in many regions. Paddling and other forms of hitting were used to discipline children. Parental consent was often not required. This is now banned or heavily restricted in most school systems.
10. No Minimum Drinking Age in Some States
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The legal drinking age varied widely across the United States, with some states allowing alcohol consumption at age 18 or younger. Enforcement of age restrictions was minimal. This contributed to underage drinking and alcohol-related injuries. Federal pressure in the 1980s led states to raise the drinking age to 21.
11. Asbestos Use
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Asbestos was widely used in construction and manufacturing despite growing evidence of its link to serious illnesses like mesothelioma. It appeared in insulation, ceiling tiles, and household items. Workers and residents were often exposed without warning. It is now banned or highly restricted in many countries.
12. Gender Discrimination at Work
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Women could legally be paid less than men for the same job, and pregnancy was often a reason for dismissal. Job advertisements could specify gender preferences, and career advancement for women was limited. Few laws protect against this kind of discrimination. Major legal reforms have since been enacted to improve workplace equality.