Massachusetts § 44A - Destruction or quarantine of infected equine animals
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 44A — Destruction or quarantine of infected equine animals, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 44A. Destruction or quarantine of infected equine animals
Section 44A. Any equine animal positive to a test approved by the United States Department of Agriculture for the detection of equine infectious anemia may be humanely destroyed; provided, that such destruction is observed by an agent of the division or of the United States department of agriculture, or may be so destroyed by a licensed veterinarian who shall report such destruction to the division, or may be sold or given under a permit from the division to an approved slaughter house or research facility, or, at the owner's option, may be retained under quarantine and held in isolation on the owner's premises; provided, however, that it may be pastured, ridden or driven on the owner's premises within a radius of two hundred yards of where it is stabled, provided, that no other horses are stabled or normally ridden or pastured within that area. Upon the discovery of one or more test positive animals within a quarter of a mile of where such animal is normally stabled, all such reactor animals shall be quarantined to screened stalls.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 44A
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 44A cover?
Section 44A ("Destruction or quarantine of infected equine animals") 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 § 44A?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 44A" (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 § 44A 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.