Moravian Cookies, Meet Andy Griffith: NC Legislation Moves to Recognize State TV Show
Moravian cookies, meet Andy Griffith. Don’t that beat all.
The North Carolina House has passed legislation for the second consecutive session to make Moravian cookies the state cookie, and now House Bill 557 has been filed to designate The Andy Griffith Show as the state’s official television show.
Meanwhile, House Bill 394, titled “Distracted Driving/Children and Animals,” brings back legislation to prohibit driving while holding an animal or interacting with a child in a manner that could lead to careless, reckless, or heedless driving.
In 2017, a similar bill sparked strong opposition from North Carolinians, leading the sponsor to withdraw it. But this time, lawmakers are pushing forward with renewed resolve.
The Andy Griffith Show: A Symbol of North Carolina
House Bill 557, which aims to make The Andy Griffith Show the state’s official TV show, is noteworthy for its unique introduction by Rep. Neal Jackson, a Republican from Randolph County. Surprisingly, Jackson is not from Surry County, Griffith’s home county, but he’s passionate about the cultural legacy of the show.
Much of the bill’s language pays tribute to Griffith, offering a mini-biography of his life and career, starting from his birth in Mount Airy in 1926. The show’s portrayal of small-town life, combined with its timeless lessons on community, kindness, and integrity, has made it an enduring symbol of North Carolina. The bill emphasizes how Griffith’s portrayal of Sheriff Andy Taylor influenced generations of North Carolinians, providing role models for behavior and ethics.
The bill humorously references iconic moments from the show, saying that “all North Carolinians should know the location of ‘Old Man Kelsey’s Woods,’ how to avoid a ‘loaded goat,’ and the marvelous existence of Mr. McBeevee.” It also encourages people to learn how to handle “a spoiled kid,” Ernest T. Bass’s mercurial nature, and the comedic danger of Otis with a “leg of lamb.”
Rep. Jackson said, “The positive character values and awareness of North Carolina make The Andy Griffith Show must-see TV for anyone who loves North Carolina.” If passed, this bill would immortalize the series as an integral part of the state’s cultural heritage.
Driving With Distracting Pets: A New Law in the Works
Meanwhile, House Bill 394 aims to prevent distracted driving caused by pets or children in a vehicle. If passed, this bill would make it illegal to drive while holding an animal or allowing one to sit in the driver’s lap. The bill would also prohibit interacting with a child or animal in a manner that impairs the proper operation of the vehicle, resulting in careless or reckless driving.
Violators would face a $100 fine, though there would be no points on their driver’s license, nor would there be an insurance surcharge. Interestingly, fully autonomous vehicles would be exempt from this law. The bill has already cleared the first of three committees and is set to be reviewed by the Judiciary 1 and Rules and Operations committees next.
While this legislation would go into effect on December 1, law enforcement officers will issue only warning tickets during the first six months, allowing drivers time to adjust. If enacted, North Carolina would join Hawaii as one of the few states with such laws.
Public Response: A “Can of Worms”
Interestingly, the issue of distracted driving caused by pets and children is not new to North Carolina. In 2017, a similar bill (House Bill 73) faced strong opposition, leading Rep. Garland Pierce, D-Scotland, to pull the bill after public outcry. Pierce explained that he was stunned by the backlash, saying, “I got ridiculed. I got beat up bad. I had no idea that I was opening a can of worms.”
The debate over the bill sparked intense discussion, and it remains to be seen how the public will respond this time around. The bill’s sponsors, however, argue that the law is necessary for road safety, pointing to a recent survey from the American Auto Association (AAA), which found that one in five drivers admitted to driving with an unrestrained dog in the car.
Despite recognizing the dangers of driving with unrestrained pets, fewer than 20% of drivers use proper restraints for their pets. The bill’s advocates argue that this legislation could help improve safety for both animals and humans on the road.
Conclusion: A Mix of Tradition and Safety
As North Carolina lawmakers push forward with these bills, the state continues to blend its rich cultural traditions with contemporary issues. Whether it’s honoring The Andy Griffith Show or passing laws to protect drivers from distractions, the state is actively engaging in legislation that resonates with both the past and the present. With these efforts, North Carolina’s distinct identity—rooted in a deep respect for its cultural legacy—remains front and center in the eyes of its residents and beyond.
