MA S1142

Amends Chapter 40A, Section 17 of the General Laws to modify bond requirements for plaintiffs appealing approved special permits, variances, or site plans

Allows courts discretionary authority to require plaintiffs to post a surety or cash bond of up to $50,000 to secure payment of costs

Bond may only be required if the court finds that harm to the defendant or public interest from appeal-related delays outweighs the financial burden on plaintiffs

Requires courts to consider both the relative merits of the appeal and the relative financial means of the plaintiff and defendant when making bond determinations

Revises provisions previously amended by Chapter 150 of the Acts of 2024