H4164

Relative to Anti-SLAPP law reforms

Introduced·5/29/25
Introduced Text

Massachusetts H4164 amends the Anti-SLAPP law to prevent liens on natural persons and mandates mediation before court decisions.

Massachusetts H4164 modifies the Anti-SLAPP law by ensuring that if both parties in a legal dispute are natural persons, any court-awarded costs or fees will not result in a lien against the nonmoving party's primary residence or business. Additionally, the bill requires the court to order mediation before deciding on a special motion to dismiss, during which no attorney fees or costs will accrue. This mediation aims to resolve disputes more efficiently.

Included in complete analysis

  • Overview
  • Core Provisions
  • Implementation
  • Impact
  • Legal Framework
  • Critical Issues

See what it does, who it affects, and the critical issues in plain language. Free, 30 seconds.

Where it stands

Current
In committee
Next
Committee decision

Sponsors

D
1
0
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

Calendar

Nov 4, 2025

1:00 PM

Joint Committee on The Judiciary Hearing

Nov 4, 2025

1:00 PM

Joint Committee on The Judiciary Hearing

History

Mar 26

House

Accompanied a study order, see H5281 (under House Rule 27)

Nov 4, 2025

Joint

Hearing rescheduled to 11/04/2025 from 01:00 PM-02:30 PM in A-1 and Virtual Hearing updated to New End Time

Nov 4, 2025

Joint

Hearing rescheduled to 11/04/2025 from 01:00 PM-05:00 PM in A-1 and Virtual Hearing updated to New End Time