[hsod]

The problem with trying to satisfy the intent of the law is that you may run afoul of the letter of the law. And since high-powered corporate and government officials don't often get a pass for obeying the intent of the law if they break the letter of the law, they're essentially forced to worry primarily about the letter.

[tsotha]

As an individual you have no obligation to even attempt to satisfy the intent of a law (and it's foolish to do so), both for the reason you state and for a more basic reason. Laws don't have intent. People have intent. For a bill to become law 539 people have to sign on to it, and they all have different understandings and agendas.