Massachusetts § 65A - Online shooting or spearing

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 65A — Online shooting or spearing, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 65A. Online shooting or spearing

Section 65A. (a) For the purposes of this section, ''online shooting or spearing'' means the use of a computer or any other device, equipment, software or technology, to remotely control the aiming and discharge of any weapon including, but not limited to, any firearm, bow and arrow, spear, slingshot, harpoon or any other projectile device or any other weapon capable of killing or capable of inflicting injury capable of killing any bird, mammal, reptile or fish.

(b) Whoever:

(1) engages in online shooting or spearing of any bird, mammal, reptile or fish;

(2) owns or operates a shooting range, site, gallery or other facility in the commonwealth utilized for online shooting or spearing;

(3) creates, maintains or utilizes an Internet Web site, or a service or business via any other means, from any location within the commonwealth for the operation of online shooting or spearing;

(4) possesses or confines any bird, mammal, reptile or fish to promote or for use in online shooting or spearing; or

(5) imports into or exports out of the commonwealth any bird, mammal, reptile or fish, or the remains thereof, injured or killed by online shooting or spearing, shall be punished by imprisonment in the house of correction for not more than 2 1/2 years or by a fine of not more than $2,500, or by both such fine and imprisonment.

(c) The department shall revoke any license issued pursuant to section 12 to any person who violates this section. The department shall not issue nor renew a license under said section 12 to any person who violates this section for not less than 3 years nor more than 5 years from the date of such violation.

(d) This section shall apply to any person, firm, corporation, partnership, limited liability company, association or other business entity.

(e) Any bird, mammal, reptile or fish, or the remains thereof, possessed in violation of this section shall be subject to seizure by the department.

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 65A

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 65A cover?

Section 65A ("Online shooting or spearing") is part of the Massachusetts General Laws, the codified statutory law of Massachusetts. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Massachusetts § 65A?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 65A" (Massachusetts). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Massachusetts law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Massachusetts official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Massachusetts attorney.

How does Massachusetts § 65A apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Massachusetts can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Massachusetts.