This list of interesting Massachusetts laws is a work in progress.
- It is a crime against public health to spit on a sidewalk or subway platform. The punishment is a mandatory fine of no more than $25.00. G.L. c. 270, § 14.
- It is illegal to throw away a refrigerator without first removing its door. G.L. c 271, §46.
- Children may not work as beggars before they are fifteen years old. G.L. c. 272, §58.
- The song “Massachusetts (Because of You Our Land Is Free)” is the official “Patriotic Song” of Massachusetts. G.L. c. 2, §31.
- Massachusetts has a “stolen valor” law, modeled after the federal Stolen Valor Act. It is a criminal offense to obtain money, property, or some tangible benefit by misrepresenting oneself as a veteran or active member of the armed forces, or recipient of certain service medals, including but not limited to the Silver Star. G.L. c. 272, §106.
- Massachusetts has a “wage gap” statute, called the Equal Pay Act. It makes it unlawful for employers to pay women less than men for doing the same work. G.L. c. 149 § 105A.
- Sales of diapers and United States flags are exempt from the 6.25% Massachusetts Sales Tax. A Guide to Massachusetts Sales and Use Tax.
- The City of Boston is one of many municipalites in Massachusetts to adopt the “Local Option” sales tax on meals of .75% on top of the 6.25% state sales tax on meals. G.L. c. 64L, § 2(a).
- Blasphemy is a punishable by up to one year in prison. G.L. c. 272, § 36.
- It is unlawful to put the word “maple” or “maple syrup” on a food product unless it actually contains maple syrup. Massachusetts Maple Law, G.L. c. 128, § 36C.
