Massachusetts § 2 - Limitations and restrictions upon manner of incurring debt

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 2 — Limitations and restrictions upon manner of incurring debt, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 2. Limitations and restrictions upon manner of incurring debt

Section 2. Except as otherwise expressly permitted by law, cities, towns and districts shall incur debts only in the manner of voting and within the limitations as to amount and time of payment prescribed in this chapter; but this section shall not be construed as prohibiting any city, town or district from placing additional restrictions, consistent with this chapter, upon the manner of incurring debt, nor as affecting the right of any city, town or district to incur debt under any special act which has or shall become effective after January first, nineteen hundred and twenty-one, or at any time in the case of debt of the city of Boston for tunnel or transit purposes; but no debt may be authorized under a general or special act except by a two-thirds vote, unless the act so provides. All provisions of law providing for sinking funds for the payment of debt of the city of Boston incurred for transit or tunnel purposes shall continue to be applicable to said debt.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 2

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 2 cover?

Section 2 ("Limitations and restrictions upon manner of incurring debt") 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 § 2?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 2" (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 § 2 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.