Massachusetts § 109 - Ballots and lists; custody; disposition
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 109 — Ballots and lists; custody; disposition, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 109. Ballots and lists; custody; disposition
Section 109. City and town clerks shall retain in their custody the envelopes or containers containing the ballots cast, without examining them or permitting them to be examined by any person except as required by law, and upon the expiration of the period fixed for their preservation shall cause such ballots to be destroyed.
City and town clerks shall retain in their custody the voting lists as long as they retain the ballots cast. They shall then transmit such voting lists to the registrars of voters, and shall destroy the ballots marked ''Spoiled'', without examining them or permitting them to be examined. Such voting lists shall be preserved by the registrars of voters for reference for two years after the expiration of which they may be destroyed.
City and town clerks shall retain in their custody ballots not cast for 30 days or until any contest is determined or claim is withdrawn under section 134, and shall then make such disposition of the ballots not cast as they consider proper.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 109
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 109 cover?
Section 109 ("Ballots and lists; custody; disposition") 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 § 109?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 109" (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 § 109 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.