Licensed to non-actual locations

[A. Joseph Ross]

On 30 Jan 2008 at 1:58, Garrett Wollman wrote:

> Of course, that is a "can't happen" condition in many other states,
> where the state constitution places even more restrictions on special
> legislation than the Massachusetts constitution does.  (In
> Massachusetts, the General Court can still abolish a town at will, if
> I read the Home Rule Amendment correctly; in many other states, this
> can only be done with the consent of the voters.)

That's not clear.  Certainly it was the case before the Home Rule 
Amendment to the state constitution was passed in 1966.  But now, the 
General Court can act with respect to cities and towns only if the 
legislation applies to a class of no fewer than two, or if the city 
or town petitions for the legislation.  

In any event, except for the Quabbin Reservoir towns, the Legislature 
ahs usually called for a referendum in any city or town involved.  
 
-- 
A. Joseph Ross, J.D.                           617.367.0468
 92 State Street, Suite 700                   Fax 617.507.7856
Boston, MA 02109-2004           	         http://www.attorneyross.com