Massachusetts § 38 - Sale of notes or securities; bids required; exceptions

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 38 — Sale of notes or securities; bids required; exceptions, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 38. Sale of notes or securities; bids required; exceptions

Section 38. Before issuing notes or securities increasing county indebtedness, the county commissioners shall invite proposals for the purchase thereof by advertisements in two or more newspapers published in said county, if any, and by advertisements in at least three daily newspapers published in Boston. They shall reserve the right to reject any and all bids. The bids shall be publicly opened and noted in their records. If no proposal is made or accepted they may award the whole or any part of the loan to any person. Notes authorized by section thirty-seven, notes or bonds issued to renew or refund indebtedness existing at the time of issue thereof, notes issued for a term of not more than two years in anticipation of a serial loan, notes or bonds in anticipation of reimbursement from cities, towns and others in connection with work temporarily financed by the county, including tuberculosis hospital maintenance notes under section eighty-five A of chapter one hundred and eleven shall be excepted from the requirement of this section as to advertising for bids and may be sold at public or private sale.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 38

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 38 cover?

Section 38 ("Sale of notes or securities; bids required; exceptions") 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.