Massachusetts § 209 - Dietitians/nutritionists; penalty for illegal representation or practice
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 209 — Dietitians/nutritionists; penalty for illegal representation or practice, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 209. Dietitians/nutritionists; penalty for illegal representation or practice
Section 209. (1) Any person acting or purporting to act as a licensed dietitian/nutritionist without first obtaining a license to practice under this chapter shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction shall be punished by a fine of not more than $5,000 or by imprisonment for a term not to exceed one year or both.
Upon conviction of a subsequent violation, such person shall be punished by a fine of not more than $10,000 or two years imprisonment or both.
(2) A person who receives any money or the equivalent thereof as a fee, commission, compensation or profit by, or in the consequence of a violation of any provision of this chapter, shall, in addition to any other penalty, be liable for a fine of not less than the sum of the money so received and not more than three times the sum so received as may be determined by the board.
(3) No action or suit shall be instituted nor recovery had, in any court of the commonwealth by any person for compensation for any act done or service rendered as a licensed dietitian/nutritionist, unless such person held a valid current license under this chapter at the time of offering to perform such act or service.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 209
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 209 cover?
Section 209 ("Dietitians/nutritionists; penalty for illegal representation or practice") 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 § 209?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 209" (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 § 209 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.