MS SB2628

Creates the Public Speech Protection Act (anti-SLAPP law) to protect individuals exercising constitutional rights of free speech, petition, and association from frivolous lawsuits designed to silence public participation

Allows defendants to file a motion to strike within 60 days of service if a claim is based on their exercise of free speech rights; plaintiff must then demonstrate a likelihood of prevailing by presenting substantial competent evidence

Stays all discovery and pending hearings upon filing of a motion to strike, with limited exceptions for specified discovery upon showing of good cause

Awards litigation costs, reasonable attorney fees, and potential sanctions to the moving party if the motion to strike succeeds; awards attorney fees to responding party if motion is found frivolous

Exempts enforcement actions by state attorneys, claims against businesses arising from commercial transactions with customers, and claims under Mississippi insurance laws