Massachusetts § 20 - Mental health facility employees; civil service exemption

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 20 — Mental health facility employees; civil service exemption, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 20. Mental health facility employees; civil service exemption

Section 20. Stationary engineers, steam firemen, school teachers and head farmers employed in mental health facilities of the department and, except as otherwise provided by the civil service law and rules, the classified labor service of the department, shall be exempt from chapter thirty-one; provided, however, that whenever, as a condition of receiving federal grants for programs and activities to which the federal standards for a merit system of personnel administration relate, federal requirements make necessary the application of the civil service law and rules to any such position, or to the classified labor service or any portion thereof, said positions or service shall be subject to chapter thirty-one; provided, further, such federal requirements are uniform in all states.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 20

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 20 cover?

Section 20 ("Mental health facility employees; civil service exemption") 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 § 20?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 20" (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 § 20 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.