An Act relative to Anti-SLAPP law reforms

This bill amends Massachusetts' Anti-SLAPP law to protect individuals and small businesses. It adds two key provisions: (1) prevents court-awarded costs from creating a legal claim (lien) on a person's primary home or small business (500 or fewer employees), and (2) requires mandatory, fee-free mediation before dismissing a case, with mediation to be completed quickly. These changes directly affect people and small businesses facing lawsuits intended to silence public participation. The bill focuses on reducing financial risk and encouraging dispute resolution without legal fees during mediation.