WV HB3205

Establishes the Uniform Public Expression Protection Act (anti-SLAPP law) allowing defendants to file a special motion to dismiss lawsuits targeting their exercise of free speech, press, assembly, petition, or association rights on matters of public concern

Requires motion to dismiss be filed within 60 days of being served; automatically stays all discovery and proceedings until the court rules on the motion and any appeal is resolved

Mandates expedited hearings within 60 days of motion filing, with court rulings due within 60 days of the hearing

Awards court costs, reasonable attorney's fees, and litigation expenses to the moving party if they prevail; responding party may recover fees only if the motion was frivolous or filed solely to delay

Grants immediate appeal as a matter of right to the West Virginia Intermediate Court of Appeals within 21 days if the motion to dismiss is denied in whole or in part