Massachusetts § 26 - Penalty for failure to establish or maintain school
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 26 — Penalty for failure to establish or maintain school, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 26. Penalty for failure to establish or maintain school
Section 26. A town required by section twenty-one to establish and to maintain continuation schools or courses which refuses or neglects to appropriate money necessary therefor, shall forfeit from funds due it from the commonwealth a sum equal to twice that estimated by the department as necessary properly to provide for the same. A sum equal to three fifths of such forfeiture shall be paid by the state treasurer to the school committee of the delinquent town, and the committee shall expend the same for such establishment and maintenance to the same extent as if it had been regularly appropriated by the town therefor.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 26
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 26 cover?
Section 26 ("Penalty for failure to establish or maintain school") 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 § 26?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 26" (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 § 26 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.