The Official Website of the Massachusetts State Ethics Commission
The Commission is authorized to impose civil fines of up to $2,000 per violation of the conflict law. In addition, the Commission may bring a civil action against any individuals who have acted to their economic advantage in violation of the law, and may recover on behalf of the commonwealth or a state agency, damages in the amount of the economic advantage or $500, whichever is greater. In certain circumstances, the Commission may also recover multiple damages.
Further, any violation which has substantially influenced an action taken by a state, county or municipal agency is grounds to avoid, rescind or cancel that action.
The law also carries criminal penalties including fines and terms of imprisonment. Criminal prosecutions under the law are the responsibility of the Attorney General and District Attorneys. The Ethics Commission has the authority to refer cases to or concurrently investigate cases with these other law enforcement agencies.