Massachusetts § 173 - Regulations for program research; monitoring; access restricted
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 173 — Regulations for program research; monitoring; access restricted, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 173. Regulations for program research; monitoring; access restricted
Section 173. The commissioner may approve research programs to obtain criminal offender record information; provided, however, that said research programs shall not publish any information that either identifies or tends to identify the subject of the criminal offender record information, and the commissioner shall promulgate regulations to govern the use of criminal offender record information for purposes of program research. Such regulations shall require preservation of the anonymity of the individuals to whom such information relates, shall require the completion of nondisclosure agreements by all participants in such programs, and shall impose such additional requirements and conditions as the commissioner finds to be necessary to assure the protection of privacy and security interests.
The commissioner may monitor any such programs to assure their effectiveness. The commissioner may, if it determines that a program's continuance threatens privacy or security interests, prohibit access on behalf of any such program to criminal offender record information.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 173
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 173 cover?
Section 173 ("Regulations for program research; monitoring; access restricted") 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 § 173?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 173" (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 § 173 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.