The bill was a throwaway. A criticism of the uselessness of the legislature in recent years, and the obstructionists making it that way. Though the legislation itself was useless, the point was popular and supported by the administration. So when the Posthumous Spirit Visitation Rights Act hit the president’s desk, he signed it.

No one expected the dead to be bound by it. Worse, the bill didn’t permit one visitation per deceased spirit to a close relative of choice, it made the visitation mandatory. Half the time, the bodiless soul didn’t want to say anything to anyone, or what it did have to say wasn’t the least bit pleasant. Being cussed at by your racist, homophobe grandpa isn’t exactly a treat for most people.

Still, a few people enjoyed it. Some folks want tearful goodbyes, or to make one last apology, or clear up some issue with the will. Courts are still arguing over whether ghosts can testify as to who killed them. So far, the answer is no, especially as they almost never show up at the right time to take the stand or be legally deposed.

But I hear Congress is passing legislation that will address the issue.