This bill amends Chapter 223A of the General Laws to modify the rules for taking depositions outside the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and to adopt the Uniform Interstate Depositions and Discovery Act. It introduces a new section, Section 15, which defines key terms such as "foreign action," "foreign jurisdiction," "foreign subpoena," and "subpoena." The bill outlines the process for requesting the issuance of a subpoena based on a foreign subpoena or court order, detailing the necessary documentation and procedures for submission to the appropriate court clerk. It also specifies that the issuance of a subpoena under this section does not constitute an appearance in Massachusetts courts and allows unrepresented parties to request subpoenas under certain conditions.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that if a party to a foreign action retains a Massachusetts-licensed attorney who receives a foreign subpoena, that attorney may issue a subpoena under the new provisions. It emphasizes that the Massachusetts Rules of Civil Procedure will apply to these subpoenas and outlines the process for seeking protective orders or modifying subpoenas. The bill aims to promote uniformity in the law regarding depositions and discovery among states that enact similar legislation. The provisions of this bill will take effect on January 1, 2027, and will apply to discovery requests in cases pending as of that date.