Massachusetts § 56 - Primaries for nomination; submission of question; notice of result to state secretary
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 56 — Primaries for nomination; submission of question; notice of result to state secretary, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 56. Primaries for nomination; submission of question; notice of result to state secretary
Section 56. In any city or town which has adopted the provisions of law for nominating by primaries, the following question shall be put on the official ballot at any city election or annual town meeting on petition of five per cent of the voters registered at the time of the preceding city election or annual town meeting, filed with the city or town clerk on or before the last day for filing nomination papers: ''Shall primaries for the nomination of candidates to be voted for at city (or town) elections continue to be held in this city (or town)?'' In any city or town not nominating by primaries, where such nominations are permitted by law, the following question may, by similar petition, be put on the ballot at the next city election or annual town meeting: ''Shall primaries for the nomination of candidates to be voted for at city (or town) elections be held in this city (or town)?'' In accordance with the result of such vote, such primaries shall or shall not thereafter be held.
Clerks of cities or towns which vote to hold primaries or to rescind such action shall forthwith notify the state secretary of such vote.
The provisions of law relative to the signing of nomination papers of candidates for state office, and to the identification and certification of names thereon and submission to the registrars therefor, shall apply, so far as apt, to the signing of petitions under this section and to the identification and certification of names thereon.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 56
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 56 cover?
Section 56 ("Primaries for nomination; submission of question; notice of result to state secretary") 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 § 56?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 56" (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 § 56 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.