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Bill

HD 2145

Proposal for a legislative amendment to the Constitution relative to oaths of office

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Kate Donaghue

Proposes constitutional amendment revising Massachusetts officials' oath requirements, affecting how state and local leaders pledge their duties to constituents and the state constitution.

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Bill Summary · HD 2145

Legislative bill overview

HD 2145 proposes a constitutional amendment to Massachusetts' oath of office requirements. The bill would modify the existing constitutional language that currently requires public officials to swear or affirm specific oaths when taking office. This amendment would alter the precise wording, scope, or conditions of these constitutional oaths for state and local officials.

Why is this important

Constitutional oaths define the legal and moral commitments officials make to their duties and the public trust. Changes to oath language can affect how officials interpret their obligations and accountability to constituents. Since this requires a constitutional amendment—not just a statute—it reflects a fundamental decision about what Massachusetts considers essential for governing.

Potential points of contention

  • Specificity of language: Concerns about whether modified oath language is too vague or too restrictive in defining official duties and constitutional obligations
  • Scope of applicability: Disagreement over which offices should be bound by the amended oath and whether different officials need different commitments
  • Enforcement mechanisms: Questions about how oath violations would be enforced and what penalties would apply to officials who breach modified oaths

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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