Serving on Massachusetts Board or Commission

About Serving on a Board or Commission

(some information from: https://appointments.state.ma.us/Responsibilities.aspx)

For some openings on Boards and Commissions, see our News Page

Background Check Paperwork - this is a sample of what an interested candidate may need to complete to be considered for appointment to a public board or commission by the Governor of Massachusetts:  Sample Background Check Paperwork

Professional Engineers, Professional Land Surveyors, Registered Architects and other Design Professionals living in and licensed in Massachusetts are sought after to serve on certain public boards and commissions created under state law or by regulations. This is an opportunity to participate directly in government, by providing your professional expertise to help shape public policy for the benefit of residents. 

Participating on a board or commission entails more than simply an individual's presence; it requires a considerable contribution of expertise and time. Because board members help influence state policies and regulations, it is important that members stay informed about issues, legislative activity, and statutes affecting their board or commission. Board and commission members must attend meetings regularly. Consistent attendance enables board members to keep abreast of board concerns and helps ensure that issues are examined from a variety of perspectives.

Conduct of Board and Commission Members

With a few exceptions, members of boards and commissions are subject to the State Conflict of Interest and Ethics Laws.

Be sure to review each pertinent section prior to submitting your application. You may also contact the State Ethics Commission at 617.371.9500 for free, confidential advice about how the laws would apply to you in a particular circumstance. If you have questions about a specific position and your eligibility, please contact the Boards and Commissions Office at 617.725.4010.