An Act relative to streamline the judicial review of local land use decisions

HD 2688 streamlines judicial review of local land use decisions in Massachusetts, directly affecting property owners, developers, and community groups challenging approvals. The bill requires plaintiffs to send written notice to all parties within 14 days of filing a complaint and submit proof of notice within 21 days, or the case is dismissed. Courts must review only the local board's record (not new evidence) and can only overturn decisions found to be arbitrary, capricious, or illegal. Additionally, non-municipal plaintiffs seeking to reverse project approvals must post a bond covering twice the property owner's estimated carrying costs and attorney fees, which is forfeited if they lose the appeal.