AN ACT RELATING TO COURTS AND CIVIL PROCEDURE-- PROCEDURE IN PARTICULAR ACTION -- SMALL CLAIMS AND CONSUMER CLAIMS

This bill modifies how filing fees are calculated for appeals in small claims and consumer cases, while also raising the maximum amount a defendant can claim in a compulsory counterclaim from $2,500 to $5,000. It requires plaintiffs and defendants to file written waivers of their right to appeal when initiating certain claims, and it establishes a special account to fund mediation services in small claims cases. Additionally, the bill removes the right to appeal for defendants who fail to respond to consumer product claims, making those judgments final. These changes would take effect on January 1, 2027.