Massachusetts § 8 - Districts' methods for allocating appropriated funds; under-performing districts; restrictions

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 8 — Districts' methods for allocating appropriated funds; under-performing districts; restrictions, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 8. Districts' methods for allocating appropriated funds; under-performing districts; restrictions

Section 8. Except as required by General Law, each school district may determine how to allocate any funds appropriated for the support of public schools without regard to the categories employed in calculating the foundation budget; provided, however, that effective July 1, 1997, school or school districts which are determined to be under-performing or chronically under-performing within the meaning of sections 1J and 1K of chapter 69 may not allocate any such funds to cover legal expenses incurred in challenging such determination or in challenging actions taken by the board, the department or the commissioner in connection with such determination.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 8

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 8 cover?

Section 8 ("Districts' methods for allocating appropriated funds; under-performing districts; restrictions") 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 § 8?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 8" (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 § 8 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.