Massachusetts § 74 - Mayor; status; powers and duties; acting mayor
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 74 — Mayor; status; powers and duties; acting mayor, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 74. Mayor; status; powers and duties; acting mayor
Section 74. The mayor shall be the chief executive officer of the city, commissioner of administration and, ex officio, chairman of the school committee. When present, he shall preside at all meetings of the city council and of the school committee and at all joint conventions thereof.
He may vote on all questions coming before the city council, but shall have no power of veto.
He shall have such other duties, rights and powers as may be provided by ordinance, not in conflict with this chapter.
During the absence or inability of the mayor to act, the commissioner of finance shall, as acting mayor, assume the duties and exercise all the rights and powers of the mayor. In the absence or inability so to act of the commissioner of finance the city council may select another commissioner from their number to perform the duties of acting mayor.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 74
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 74 cover?
Section 74 ("Mayor; status; powers and duties; acting mayor") 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 § 74?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 74" (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 § 74 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.