Massachusetts § 3 - Powers of commissioner and attorney general

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 3 — Powers of commissioner and attorney general, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 3. Powers of commissioner and attorney general

Section 3. The commissioner or the attorney general, or their authorized representatives, shall have full power and authority:

1. To investigate and ascertain the wages of persons employed in any occupation in the commonwealth;

2. To enter the place of business or employment of any employer of persons in any occupation, other than domestic service in the home of the employer, for the purpose of examining, inspecting and making a transcript of any and all books, registers, pay-rolls, and other records of any employer of persons that in any way appertain to or have a bearing upon the question of wages of any such persons and for the purpose of ascertaining whether the orders of the commissioner or the attorney general have been and are being complied with; and

3. To require from such employer full and correct statements in writing when the commissioner or the attorney general, or their authorized representatives, deem necessary, of the wages paid to all persons in his employ, such statements to be under oath or accompanied by a written declaration that they are made under the penalties of perjury.

4. To carry out the provisions of this chapter.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 3

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 3 cover?

Section 3 ("Powers of commissioner and attorney general") 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 § 3?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 3" (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 § 3 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.