Massachusetts § 17 - Public service status of officers or employees protected relative to political contributions; penalty
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 17 — Public service status of officers or employees protected relative to political contributions; penalty, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 17. Public service status of officers or employees protected relative to political contributions; penalty
Section 17. No officer or employee of the commonwealth or of any county, city or town shall discharge, promote, or degrade an officer or employee, or change his official rank or compensation, or promise or threaten so to do, for giving, withholding or neglecting to make a contribution of money or other valuable thing for a political purpose.
Violation of any provision of this section shall be punished by a fine of not less than one hundred nor more than one thousand dollars.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 17
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 17 cover?
Section 17 ("Public service status of officers or employees protected relative to political contributions; penalty") 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 § 17?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 17" (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 § 17 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.