The bill amends sections of the General Laws in Chapter 10-16 entitled "Small Claims and Consumer Claims" to update procedures and fees related to small claims actions. It introduces changes to the filing fee structure, requiring the plaintiff to pay a total of $75.75, which includes a $55.00 filing fee, a $17.50 civil processing fee, and a $3.25 technology surcharge fee. The bill also establishes a "small claims mediation restricted-receipt account" for the services of mediators and related expenses. Additionally, it mandates that both the plaintiff and the defendant file a written waiver of the right to appeal when filing a claim or compulsory counterclaim, respectively.

The bill increases the maximum amount for a counterclaim from $2,500 to $5,000 and outlines the procedures if the counterclaim exceeds this amount. It also revises the appeal process, setting the appeal fee for the defendant at $115, which includes a $70.00 filing fee, a $45.00 service fee, a $17.50 civil case processing fee, and a $3.25 technology surcharge. If the plaintiff is appealing on a counterclaim, they must pay a $70.00 appeal fee. The bill specifies that in cases where the plaintiff is a consumer product purchaser and the defendant defaults, the judgment is final and the defendant forfeits the right to appeal. The act will take effect upon passage.