MO HB585

Allows defendants in lawsuits to file special motions to dismiss, motions for judgment on the pleadings, or motions for summary judgment for cases involving conduct or speech at public hearings, meetings, or quasi-judicial proceedings before state or local government bodies.

Requires courts to consider such motions on an expedited or priority basis and suspends all discovery pending the court's decision on the motion and exhaustion of appeals.

Mandates that courts award reasonable attorney fees and costs to the prevailing defendant if a motion is granted and filed within 90 days of the defendant's answer, or award fees to the prevailing party if the motion is found to be frivolous or intended solely to cause unnecessary delay.

Grants parties the right to an expedited appeal from trial court orders on these special motions or from a trial court's failure to rule on the motion expeditiously.

Preserves other legal remedies and rights, including civil actions for defamation, and applies the provisions to all causes of action.