FL H1041

Amends Florida Statutes section 768.295 to prohibit governmental entities from filing SLAPP suits against persons or entities exercising constitutional rights to free speech on public issues, peaceful assembly, instructing representatives, or petitioning for redress of grievances.

Defines "free speech in connection with public issues" to include written or oral statements made before governmental entities on matters under their consideration, or statements made in plays, movies, television programs, radio broadcasts, audiovisual works, books, magazines, musical works, or news reports.

Allows defendants sued by governmental entities or other persons in violation of this section to file motions for summary judgment and expedited court hearings to dismiss meritless SLAPP suits.

Entitles prevailing parties to recover actual damages from violating governmental entities (subject to limitations in section 768.28) and requires courts to award reasonable attorney's fees and costs.

Requires governmental entities found by courts to have violated this section to report the violation to the Attorney General within 30 days, with the Attorney General reporting findings to the Cabinet, President of the Senate, and Speaker of the House.