Massachusetts § 38 - Borrowing money to meet expenses; bonds or notes

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 38 — Borrowing money to meet expenses; bonds or notes, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 38. Borrowing money to meet expenses; bonds or notes

Section 38. To meet the expense of acquiring land in fee under section thirty-five or for constructing buildings under section thirty-six, the county commissioners may borrow from time to time, upon the credit of the county, such sums as may be necessary, not exceeding in the aggregate in any one year the sum of ten thousand dollars, and may issue bonds or notes of the county therefor, which shall be payable in not more than five years from their respective dates. The expense of maintaining industrial farms as authorized under sections thirty-five, thirty-six and thirty-seven shall be provided for in accordance with section twenty-eight of chapter thirty-five. Bonds or notes issued under authority of this section shall bear on their face the words, County of Industrial Farm Loan, General Laws, Chapter 126, — and, except as herein provided, shall be subject to chapter thirty-five. Such bonds or notes shall be signed by the treasurer of the county and countersigned by a majority of the county commissioners and shall not be sold for less than their par value. The county may sell the said securities at public or private sale and the proceeds shall be used only for such of the aforesaid purposes as are specified in the vote authorizing the loan.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 38

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 38 cover?

Section 38 ("Borrowing money to meet expenses; bonds or notes") 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 § 38?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 38" (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 § 38 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.