Massachusetts § 17 - Withholding appropriations; unadjusted accounts

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 17 — Withholding appropriations; unadjusted accounts, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 17. Withholding appropriations; unadjusted accounts

Section 17. An appropriation act shall not be construed to require a payment to a person with whom the commonwealth has an unadjusted account. The governor, upon receiving satisfactory information that money is illegally withheld from the commonwealth by any person, shall instruct the state treasurer to withhold all payments to such person until the person pays such account.

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 17

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 17 cover?

Section 17 ("Withholding appropriations; unadjusted accounts") 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.