Massachusetts § 16 - Retail stores and shops; Sunday and holiday opening

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 16 — Retail stores and shops; Sunday and holiday opening, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 16. Retail stores and shops; Sunday and holiday opening

Section 16. All stores and shops which sell goods at retail may be open at any time on Sundays and on Memorial Day, Juneteenth Independence Day, July Fourth and Labor Day, but no such stores and shops may be open on Christmas Day if Christmas occurs on a Sunday. The performance of labor, business and work directly connected to retail sales on these days shall also be allowed. Stores and shops allowed to open under this section may sell on these days all types of goods and foodstuffs which may lawfully be offered for sale in the commonwealth other than alcoholic beverages. To the extent that this section is inconsistent with section 6 or any other general or special law, this section shall control.

Any store or shop that qualifies for exemption under clause (25), (27) or (50) of section 6 and employs more than 7 persons, including the proprietor, shall not require any employee to perform such work, and an employee's refusal to work for any retail establishment on a holiday shall not be grounds for discrimination, dismissal, discharge, reduction in hours or any other penalty. The terms ''Memorial Day,'' ''Juneteenth Independence Day,'' ''July Fourth'' and ''Labor Day'' shall mean the legal holidays on which said days are celebrated in accordance with clause eighteen of section seven of chapter four of the General Laws.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 16

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 16 cover?

Section 16 ("Retail stores and shops; Sunday and holiday opening") 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 § 16?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 16" (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 § 16 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.