Massachusetts § 99 - Unauthorized use of uniform; penalties
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 99 — Unauthorized use of uniform; penalties, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 99. Unauthorized use of uniform; penalties
Section 99. Whoever, not being in the service of the armed forces of the United States or of the commonwealth, appears in public wearing the distinctive uniform of any branch of such service shall be punished by a fine of not more than $1,000 or by imprisonment for not more than 6 months or both. This section shall not apply to: (i) any person discharged from such service, for any cause other than the own unworthiness of the person, wearing a uniform to take part in any military or naval parade or on any occasion of ceremony; or (ii) any person in the service of the armed forces of the United States, discharged for any cause other than the own unworthiness of the person, wearing the uniform from the place of discharge to the home of the person. A person found to have violated this section may be arrested without a warrant by any officer qualified to serve criminal process; provided, however, that nothing in this section shall subject to penalty any action with respect to the wearing of uniforms of the armed forces of the United States which is authorized by federal law.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 99
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 99 cover?
Section 99 ("Unauthorized use of uniform; penalties") 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 § 99?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 99" (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 § 99 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.