I don't think religion has anything to do with it. edit: As soon as I posted this, my computer crashed and while I was waiting for it to reboot I realized that you probably are right Rick.
I guess the "blue laws" are based on religious beliefs.
RICHMOND, Va., July 2 - A Richmond judge on Friday temporarily blocked a new state law that would force Virginia employers to allow workers Saturday or Sunday off. http://www.nytimes.com/2004/07/03/national/03work.html