their rules manifest themselves in increasingly ludicrous ways

Speaking of which, there is also the example of children’s lemonade stands being shut down by government agents (cops or health inspectors or the like), a fresh story popping up to national attention periodically. The most recent example being that of a 7-year old, fastidious about hand sanitizer and ice scoops, who was forced by a health inspector to shut down her little experience- and character-building, money-making enterprise at an art fair for want of a $120 temporary restaurant (!) license, or face a $500 fine. And setting up shop on your front lawn is no escape. State preserve us from unsanitary lemonade preparation!