Massachusetts § 87 - Preparation of absent voting ballots, envelopes, instructions
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 87 — Preparation of absent voting ballots, envelopes, instructions, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 87. Preparation of absent voting ballots, envelopes, instructions
Section 87. Prior to each biennial state election the state secretary shall prepare in such quantities as he may deem necessary the following papers:
(a) Official absent voting ballots, similar in all respects to the official ballot to be used at such election, except that they shall be printed on paper differing in color from that used for official or specimen ballots.
[There is no subsection (b).]
(c) Envelopes of sufficient size to contain the ballots specified in subsection (a) bearing on their reverse the voter's affidavit of compliance with the requirements of section ninety-two.
(d) Envelopes of size sufficient to contain the envelope identified in subsection (c), addressed to the clerks of the several cities and towns within the commonwealth, upon which shall be printed blank spaces for the name, address and voting place of the sender, which shall be filled in by the city or town clerk prior to the mailing of such envelopes.
The state secretary shall furnish such explanatory matter and instructions as he may deem appropriate to carry into effect the purposes of sections eighty-six to one hundred and three, inclusive.
To the extent feasible, the state secretary shall include on the envelopes required pursuant to this subsection a system that generates a postmark for determining the date upon which the envelope was mailed.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 87
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 87 cover?
Section 87 ("Preparation of absent voting ballots, envelopes, instructions") 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 § 87?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 87" (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 § 87 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.