The bill amends several sections of the General Laws in Chapter 10-16, which pertains to "Small Claims and Consumer Claims." Key changes include an increase in the filing fee for plaintiffs from $55 to $75, which now includes a civil case processing fee and a technology surcharge. Additionally, a new "small claims mediation restricted-receipt account" is established to fund mediation services. The bill also introduces a requirement for both plaintiffs and defendants to file written waivers of the right to appeal, with the defendant's waiver specifically pertaining to counterclaims. The maximum amount for compulsory counterclaims is raised from $2,500 to $5,000.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the appeals process for defendants, allowing them the same rights of appeal as in ordinary civil actions, with a $75 filing fee applicable at the time of claiming the appeal. It also stipulates that if a plaintiff is appealing a counterclaim, they must pay the same appeal filing fee. Notably, if a plaintiff, as a consumer, wins a default judgment against a defendant who fails to respond, that judgment will be final, and the defendant will lose the right to appeal. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.