Massachusetts § 47 - Blind persons; examinations; temporary appointment of persons with an intellectual disability

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 47 — Blind persons; examinations; temporary appointment of persons with an intellectual disability, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 47. Blind persons; examinations; temporary appointment of persons with an intellectual disability

Section 47. Upon application by a blind person to take an examination for any position the duties of which he may properly perform, the administrator, upon written request of such person, shall make such provisions as will enable such person to take such examination.

Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, an appointing authority may, after giving written notice to the administrator, make a temporary appointment of a person with an intellectual disability to a civil service position, provided that the appointing authority shall secure and maintain on file a certificate from MassAbility that such person has an intellectual disability and that such commission approves such employment of such person. The appointing authority shall also maintain a record of the following:

(1) the specific title and duties to be assigned to such person with an intellectual disability and the title of his immediate supervisor;

(2) a certificate from MassAbility that the person with an intellectual disability: (a) can satisfactorily perform the duties of the position, (b) is qualified to do the work without hazard to himself or to others, and (c) is socially competent to maintain himself in a work environment;

(3) a statement that it will fully utilize the services of MassAbility for assistance to the employee's immediate supervisor in the training and supervision of the employee and for post-placement counseling of the employee;

(4) a statement that it will not terminate the person with an intellectual disability's employment without prior notification to MassAbility.

The appointing authority may require any such person with an intellectual disability to undergo such tests as, in its opinion, will measure the fitness of such person to properly perform the duties of the position.

Upon commencement of employment pursuant to this section, such person with an intellectual disability shall be deemed to be employed on a temporary basis in such position. The appointing authority shall notify the administrator when such person with an intellectual disability has been continuously employed in a year-round temporary position for a period of three years, whereupon such position shall be deemed to be a permanent position, and such person shall be deemed to be a tenured employee therein. The administrator shall give appropriate notice thereof, by title and position number, with respect to each such position in the service of the commonwealth to the budget director, the comptroller, the house and senate committees on ways and means, and the appointing authority.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 47

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 47 cover?

Section 47 ("Blind persons; examinations; temporary appointment of persons with an intellectual disability") 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 § 47?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 47" (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 § 47 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.