Massachusetts § 16 - Physical examination of inmates; communicable diseases; examination for substance abuse disorder
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 16 — Physical examination of inmates; communicable diseases; examination for substance abuse disorder, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 16. Physical examination of inmates; communicable diseases; examination for substance abuse disorder
Section 16. The superintendents of the correctional institutions of the commonwealth, and the keepers and superintendents of jails and houses of correction shall cause a thorough physical examination to be made by a competent physician of each inmate in their respective institutions committed for a term of thirty days' imprisonment or more. In conducting the examination special attention shall be given to determining the presence of communicable diseases, particularly venereal diseases as defined under section six of chapter one hundred and eleven and pulmonary tuberculosis.
The superintendents of correctional institutions and the keepers and superintendents of jails and houses of correction shall cause an examination for substance use disorder to be made by a qualified addiction specialist of each inmate in their respective institutions who is committed for a term of 30 days' imprisonment or more.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 16
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 16 cover?
Section 16 ("Physical examination of inmates; communicable diseases; examination for substance abuse disorder") 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 § 16?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 16" (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 § 16 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.