Massachusetts § 39 - Selling goods and provisions, caring for horses, illegal gaming, horse racing or exhibits near camp meetings

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 39 — Selling goods and provisions, caring for horses, illegal gaming, horse racing or exhibits near camp meetings, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 39. Selling goods and provisions, caring for horses, illegal gaming, horse racing or exhibits near camp meetings

Section 39. Whoever, during the time of holding a camp or field meeting for religious purposes, and within one mile of the place thereof, hawks or peddles goods, wares or merchandise, or establishes or maintains a tent, booth or building for vending provisions or refreshments, or furnishes shelter and food for or has the care of horses for pay, without permission from the authorities or officers having the charge or direction of such meeting, or engages in illegal gaming or horse racing, or exhibits or offers to exhibit any show or play, shall forfeit not more than twenty dollars; provided, that the time of holding such meeting shall not exceed thirty consecutive days in any one year; and that a person having a regular, usual and established place of business within such limits need not suspend his business.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 39

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 39 cover?

Section 39 ("Selling goods and provisions, caring for horses, illegal gaming, horse racing or exhibits near camp meetings") 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 § 39?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 39" (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 § 39 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.