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SC H5420
Bill
Status
Introduced
3/25/2026
Primary Sponsor
Marvin Smith
Click for details
AI Summary
- Creates the "South Carolina Citizens Participation Act," an anti-SLAPP law allowing defendants in civil lawsuits to file motions to dismiss when sued for exercising free speech, petition, or association rights on matters of public concern
- Requires motions to dismiss be filed within 60 days of service, with hearings held within 60-90 days and court rulings issued within 30 days of hearing conclusion
- Suspends all discovery upon filing of the motion until the court rules, unless the court allows limited discovery for good cause
- Mandates courts award court costs and reasonable attorney's fees to the moving party if dismissal is granted; permits sanctions against plaintiffs who file improper lawsuits
- Excludes numerous categories from the law including government enforcement actions, bodily injury claims, insurance disputes, family law cases, evictions, trade secret claims, and legal malpractice actions
Legislative Description
SC Citizens Participation Act
Last Action
Referred to Committee on Judiciary
3/25/2026
Committee Referrals
Judiciary3/25/2026
Full Bill Text
No bill text available