Massachusetts § 16 - Scope of examinations; marks; appointments based solely on training and experience

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 16 — Scope of examinations; marks; appointments based solely on training and experience, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 16. Scope of examinations; marks; appointments based solely on training and experience

Section 16. Examinations shall be conducted under the direction of the administrator, who shall determine their form, method and subject matter. Examinations shall fairly test the knowledge, skills and abilities which can be practically and reliably measured and which are actually required to perform the primary or dominant duties of the position for which the examination is held. The administrator shall, in development of examinations, consult with representatives of labor and professionals in the field to increase emphasis upon aptitudes relevant to performing the positions to be tested. Upon the application of a handicapped person to take an examination for any position, the administrator, upon written request of such person, shall make reasonable accommodations as will enable such handicapped person to take the examination.

The administrator shall, subject to the provisions of section twenty-six, where applicable, examine, qualify, and rank applicants for original or promotional appointments solely on the basis of training, experience, education or other criteria considered appropriate by the administrator (a) for a scientific or professional position for which education at or above the master's degree level is required by statute or under authority thereof; (b) when the major duty of a position is such that applicants are required to have successfully completed a course in emergency medical care pursuant to the provisions of chapter one hundred and eleven C; (c) when the major duty of a position is such that applicants are required to possess a certificate, registration or license issued after examination by a state board of registration or examiners or by a professional association specified by the administrator. A person who has taken a civil service examination pursuant to this paragraph shall not have recourse to the review procedures set forth in section twenty-two.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 16

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 16 cover?

Section 16 ("Scope of examinations; marks; appointments based solely on training and experience") 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.