Massachusetts § 171 - Commissary items in state correctional facilities, state prisons, county correctional facilities and entities contracting with such facilities
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 171 — Commissary items in state correctional facilities, state prisons, county correctional facilities and entities contracting with such facilities, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 171. Commissary items in state correctional facilities, state prisons, county correctional facilities and entities contracting with such facilities
Section 171. (a) For the purposes of this section, the terms ''county correctional facility'', ''state correctional facility'' and ''state prison'' shall have the same meanings as those terms are defined in section 1 of chapter 125.
(b) The department of correction, state correctional facilities, state prisons, county correctional facilities and entities, sellers, suppliers or vendors contracting with such facilities shall charge an amount not to exceed 95 per cent of the market price for commissary items at non-correctional major retail stores in the commonwealth. The department of correction and county sheriffs shall maximize discounts procured from bulk purchasing of commissary items or other contracting opportunities that reduce the cost of such items and shall not receive commissions, revenue or other financial incentives in any contract with a seller, supplier or vendor of commissary items. Commissary items offered shall include gender affirming items, consistent with section 32A, and culturally appropriate items for all communities in custody.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 171
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 171 cover?
Section 171 ("Commissary items in state correctional facilities, state prisons, county correctional facilities and entities contracting with such facilities") 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 § 171?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 171" (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 § 171 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.