Massachusetts § 66 - Time of work for children; exceptions

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 66 — Time of work for children; exceptions, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 66. Time of work for children; exceptions

Section 66. A person shall not employ a child or permit a child to work in, about or in connection with any establishment or occupation before 6:00 a.m. or after 10:00 p.m.; provided, however, that a child may be employed as an operator in a regular service telephone exchange or a telegraph office until, but not after, 11:00 p.m.; provided, further, that a child 16 years of age or older may be employed until, but not after, 11:30 p.m. on any night other than a night preceding a regularly scheduled school day; provided, further, that a child 16 years of age or older may be employed in a restaurant or race track until, but not after, 12 o'clock in the evening on any night other than a night preceding a regularly scheduled school day; and provided, further, that an establishment which stops serving clients or customers at 10:00 p.m. may employ a child until, but not after, 10:15 p.m. A person shall not employ a child or permit a child to work in, about or in connection with any establishment or occupation after 8:00 p.m. unless the child is under the direct and immediate supervision of an adult acting in a supervisory capacity, who is situated in the workplace and is reasonably accessible to the child. This section shall not apply to a child employed at a kiosk, cart, or stand located within the common areas of an enclosed shopping mall that employs security personnel, a private security company or a public police detail every night from 8:00 p.m. until the mall is closed to the public.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 66

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 66 cover?

Section 66 ("Time of work for children; exceptions") 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 § 66?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 66" (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 § 66 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.