Massachusetts § 20A - Propagation of shellfish; co-operation with coastal cities and towns
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 20A — Propagation of shellfish; co-operation with coastal cities and towns, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 20A. Propagation of shellfish; co-operation with coastal cities and towns
Section 20A. The director shall assist and cooperate with coastal cities and towns for the purpose of establishing and maintaining a program of self-help to said cities and towns for the cultivation, propagation and protection of shellfish. Funds to carry out the purposes of this section shall annually be appropriated from the Tourism and Industrial Promotion Fund. The director may expend such sums as may be appropriated from said fund, but such sums as are expended therefor shall be conditional upon the expenditure of an equal amount of money by said cities and towns.
The treasurer of each participating city or town shall certify to the director annually the amounts so appropriated by said city or town, which for the purposes of this act shall be equal to the total shellfish department budget.
The director, with the approval of the commissioner, shall certify to the state treasurer on an annual basis all sums pledged to the aforesaid purpose by said cities and towns. Family use areas and recreational shellfish areas set aside pursuant to section fifty-two which are cultivated, propagated or protected under the funding or provisions of this section shall be open to all inhabitants of the commonwealth upon payment of a reasonable fee.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 20A
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 20A cover?
Section 20A ("Propagation of shellfish; co-operation with coastal cities and towns") 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 § 20A?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 20A" (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 § 20A 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.