Legal Question in Civil Rights Law in Virginia

Re: my legal rights as a shopper

As far as I can can tell, your question involves first and foremost the applicable laws of the Commonwealth

of Virginia, and, not, whatever the applicable laws of the state of Washington might be with respect to this situation---nor do I believe that there are any credible questions presented for adjudication by federal courts.

In my opinion, the owner's interpretation (which you've dewscribed)of what he believes he can legally get away with regarding to checking your purse and related parcels under the applicable laws of the Commonwealth, is probably about right. Does this mean that's it moral or necessarily acceptable? Not hardly. However, we're discussing the Commonwealth of Virgina and not the assertedly "more progressive jurisdiction" of Washington state.

Re: my legal rights as a shopper

That's a very good question. Practically speaking, no he cannot demand "anything" of you just for the "privilege" of shopping in his shop.

Until men start carrying purses, it IS discriminatory against women.

The suggestion is to write a letter to the editor, contact the BBB in your area and the state consumer advocacy board to see what the legal rules are specifically. One thing is certain: his control is not absolute.

On the other hand, why shop there [read: give him your time or money] if the terms of service are so awful.