Massachusetts Constitution, Articles 29. Power of suspension of laws
Massachusetts Constitution – Article XXIX (29): Power of Suspension of Laws
This article is part of the Massachusetts Declaration of Rights, which outlines fundamental civil liberties and limitations on government power.
📜 Full Text of Article XXIX – Power of Suspension of Laws:
"The power of suspending the laws, or the execution of the laws, ought never to be exercised but by the legislature, or by authority derived from it, to be exercised in such particular cases only as the legislature shall expressly provide for."
✅ Plain Language Summary:
Only the legislature (or someone it specifically authorizes) can suspend laws or their enforcement.
No executive, military, or court authority may unilaterally stop a law from taking effect or being enforced unless the legislature has clearly allowed it.
Reinforces the principle of separation of powers and legislative supremacy in lawmaking.
⚖️ Why This Article Is Important:
Prevents abuse of executive power — such as a governor or other official ignoring or pausing a law without legal basis.
Ensures laws remain consistently applied unless changed through lawful, democratic processes.
Reflects a strong commitment to rule of law and checks and balances.
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