Massachusetts § 60 - Novelty lighters; application of section

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 60 — Novelty lighters; application of section, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 60. Novelty lighters; application of section

Section 60. (a) For the purposes of this section, ''novelty lighter'' shall mean a mechanical or electrical device manufactured for the purpose of producing a flame to light cigarettes, cigars or pipes and which, due to the physical or audio features of the device, excluding its capability of producing a flame, would reasonably be expected to cause the lighter to be appealing or attractive to a child under the age of 10 including, but not limited to, lighters that resemble a cartoon character, toy, gun, watch, musical instrument, vehicle, animal, beverage, sporting equipment or that is capable of playing musical notes or displaying flashing lights.

(b) Whoever manufactures, offers for sale, sells, exchanges, gives away, stores or transports any novelty lighter shall be punished by a fine of not less than $500 and not more than $1,000 or by imprisonment for not more than 1 year, or both.

(c) This section shall not apply: (i) to a novelty lighter manufactured before January 1, 1980 and which is considered a collectible item within the collectible trade; (ii) to a disposable or refillable lighter with a logo, label, decal or artwork printed thereon or on heat shrinkable sleeves attached thereto but which does not otherwise resemble a novelty lighter; or (iii) if not intended for sale or use in the commonwealth, to the interstate transportation of a novelty lighter or to the temporary storage of a novelty lighter while in interstate commerce.

Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 60

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 60 cover?

Section 60 ("Novelty lighters; application of section") 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 § 60?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 60" (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 § 60 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.