A more thorough explanation:

Definition: Mulct law is a historical law in Iowa that allowed certain saloons to pay a sum of money to the state and continue selling alcohol, even though there was a statewide prohibition against alcohol sales. The money paid was called a mulct, but it was essentially a licensing tax rather than a criminal penalty because the saloons were not prosecuted for violating the liquor law.

Example: In the early 1900s, Iowa passed a law prohibiting the sale of alcohol. However, some saloons were allowed to continue operating if they paid a mulct to the state. This meant that they could sell alcohol legally, as long as they paid the required fee.

Explanation: The mulct law allowed certain saloons to operate legally, even though they were technically violating the state's prohibition on alcohol sales. By paying the mulct, they were essentially obtaining a license to sell alcohol, which allowed them to continue operating without fear of prosecution. This law was controversial at the time, as many people believed that it undermined the state's efforts to curb alcohol consumption.