American Laws

In addition to laws that apply throughout the U.S., states and municipalities also have ordinances that can vary from one location to another, so it is a good idea to familiarize yourself with federal, state and local laws in the community where you will live and work.

Here are a few federal laws that may differ from those of your home country: 

• The Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution gives citizens the right to possess and carry firearms, although gun laws within that broadly defined right vary from state to state. Kansas and Missouri both have lenient gun laws relative to other states.
• The legal drinking age in the U.S. is 21. If you look younger than 30, you may be asked to provide a photo ID in the form of a passport or driver’s license when purchasing alcohol or ordering drinks in a restaurant.
• While not federally mandated, smoking indoors in offices, hospitals and public places is illegal in many U.S. cities and states, and prohibited in some outdoor areas such as near building entrances. Look for signs identifying designated smoking areas or locations where smoking is not allowed.
• Buying, selling and possessing illicit drugs is illegal in the United States, and you can be arrested if you are found carrying illegal drugs. This does not pertain to prescription medications or drugs routinely sold over-the-counter in retail stores.
• You can easily travel from state to state (including between Kansas and Missouri!) without going through customs.