MA H1724

Replaces Massachusetts Tort Claims Act (Chapter 258) to establish that persons harmed by government entities or employees are entitled to "prompt, fair and reasonable compensation" for losses

Eliminates the presentment requirement before filing suit and sets a 3-year statute of limitations for most claims, with civil actions filed directly in court

Establishes "serious personal injury" threshold at injuries causing disfigurement, loss of bodily function, debilitating emotional harm, or medical costs/lost wages exceeding $2,500; "serious property damage" set at $2,500 minimum (excluding motor vehicles and residences)

Requires the Attorney General to procure insurance or establish a self-insurance program for all public employers, with costs allocated proportionally among the commonwealth, cities, towns, and counties

Provides indemnification for public employees up to $10,000,000 for intentional torts or civil rights violations committed within scope of employment, except where employee acted intentionally, with gross negligence, or maliciously; prohibits confidentiality terms in settlement agreements and bans mandatory arbitration clauses