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MS SB2734
Bill
AI Summary
- Enacts the Uniform Public Expression Protection Act, providing defendants with a special expedited motion to dismiss lawsuits arising from protected speech, petitioning, or assembly on matters of public concern
- Requires defendants to file the special motion within 60 days of being served; filing automatically stays all proceedings including discovery until the court rules and any appeal period expires
- Courts must hear the motion within 60 days and rule within 60 days after the hearing; defendants may appeal denials as of right within 30 days
- Courts shall dismiss claims with prejudice if the act applies and the plaintiff fails to establish a prima facie case or the defendant shows no genuine issue of material fact exists
- Prevailing defendants receive mandatory awards of costs, reasonable attorney fees, and litigation expenses; prevailing plaintiffs receive such awards only if the motion was frivolous or filed solely to delay
Legislative Description
Uniform Public Expression Protection Act; enact.
Last Action
Died In Committee
2/3/2026
Committee Referrals
Judiciary, Division A1/19/2026
Full Bill Text
No bill text available