Massachusetts § 174 - Drinking water in railroad cars
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 174 — Drinking water in railroad cars, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 174. Drinking water in railroad cars
Section 174. Every railroad car, except private cars, sleeping cars, dining cars, parlor cars, and the smoking, buffet and observation cars used in connection with the same, while in use for the transportation of passengers, upon a train running thirty miles or more, shall be provided with a sufficient quantity of pure drinking water in such place in the car as will be convenient for the passengers, and with individual drinking cups accessible to the passengers. Said cups shall be in a proper receptacle near the water tank, and said receptacle shall be so placed as to be easily seen and shall be plainly marked as follows:
DRINKING CUPS
FOR USE
ONLY IN THIS CAR
FREE
such words to occupy a space not less than two inches wide by three inches long, and to be in clear black letters on a white background. No charge shall be made for the water or for the drinking cups. The water and cups supplied shall be subject to the supervision and approval of the department of public health, which shall enforce this and the following section.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 174
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 174 cover?
Section 174 ("Drinking water in railroad cars") 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 § 174?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 174" (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 § 174 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.