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Massachusetts

These resources – like the public health crisis itself – are constantly evolving and are only current as to the date of publication. This page was last updated on September 14, 2020.

For more up-to-date information on the relief programs available in Massachusetts, we recommend that you visit the state's COVID-19 Updates and Information website, COVID-19 State of Emergency resources or MassTrac's list of bills related to the COVID-19 pandemic

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Description of Program and Relief

Order Amending the Administration of Penalties Issued Pursuant to Certain COVID-19 Orders

The Governor has issued COVID-19 Order No. 48 (available here) to support and standardize municipal and State efforts to ensure compliance with certain COVID-19 safety mandates. This Order is intended to provide local and State authorities with a clear and consistent process to enforce these requirements, and to offer the Courts clear instruction to process civil citations issued for violations of these requirements.

All fines issued pursuant to the following COVID-19 Orders and their applicable guidance will be administered in the manner provided for the non-criminal disposition of violations of municipal by-law, ordinance, rule, or regulation pursuant to G. L. c. 40, § 21D (available here), notwithstanding any contrary provision in such Orders:

              As provided in G. L. c. 40, § 21D, a duly-authorized person or entity may apply for the issuance of a complaint against any person in violation of the applicable COVID-19 Order, if the violator:

              • fails to pay a fine issued pursuant to such Order within the time specified; or

              • having appeared, does not confess the offense before the clerk or pay the sum of money fixed as a penalty after a hearing and finding.

              The adoption of this uniform method for processing violations shall not modify the maximum fines, limit any other method of enforcement, or modify any other term specified in the above Orders.

              Government or Lead Agency

              Office of the Governor

              Eligibility Requirements/Restrictions

              Not applicable

              Application Deadlines (If Applicable)

              This Order is effective immediately and shall remain in effect until rescinded or until the state of emergency is ended, whichever occurs first.

              List of Additional Information

              The Order is available here.


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