MD HB650

Repeals Maryland's existing anti-SLAPP (Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation) statute and replaces it with the Maryland Uniform Public Expression Protection Act, adding Sections 5-1301 through 5-1313 to the Courts and Judicial Proceedings Article.

Allows defendants sued over communications in governmental proceedings or exercise of First Amendment rights on matters of public concern to file a special motion for expedited dismissal within 60 days of being served.

Stays all proceedings, including discovery, upon filing of the motion; courts must hear the motion within 60 days and rule within 60 days after the hearing.

Requires courts to award costs, attorney's fees, and litigation expenses to the moving party if they prevail, or to the responding party only if the motion was frivolous or filed solely to delay proceedings.

Applies prospectively to causes of action arising on or after October 1, 2026, and excludes claims against government entities, government enforcement actions for public health/safety, and commercial speech disputes.