Massachusetts § 28 - Right of action against city or town for labor; filing statement; fee; limitations

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 28 — Right of action against city or town for labor; filing statement; fee; limitations, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 28. Right of action against city or town for labor; filing statement; fee; limitations

Section 28. A person to whom a debt is due for labor performed in constructing a building, sewer or drain, or water works or other public works owned by a city or town, under a contract with any person having authority from or rightfully acting for such city or town in furnishing such labor, shall have a right of action against such city or town to recover such debt if, within thirty days after he ceases to perform such labor, he files in the clerk's office of the city or town against which he claims such right of action a written statement under oath of the amount of the debt so due to him, and the names of the persons for whom and by whose employment the labor was performed and pays to the said clerk the fee provided by clause (61) of section thirty-four of chapter two hundred and sixty-two, and if, within sixty days after he ceases to perform such labor, he commences such action. Such right of action shall not be lost by reason of a mistake in stating the amount due; but the claimant shall not recover as damages a larger amount than is named in such statement as due to him, with interest. No person who has contracted to furnish labor other than his own in such construction shall have such right of action.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 28

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 28 cover?

Section 28 ("Right of action against city or town for labor; filing statement; fee; limitations") 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 § 28?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 28" (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 § 28 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.