Bill > S1001

This bill establishes the Uniform Public Expression Protection Act in Idaho, which provides a legal mechanism to quickly dismiss lawsuits that potentially infringe on constitutional rights of free speech, assembly, and association. The act allows individuals who are sued for communications on matters of public concern to file a special motion for expedited relief within 60 days of being served with a complaint. If the motion is successful, the court must dismiss the lawsuit if the person can show the communication is protected under the act and the other party cannot establish a prima facie case. The bill includes provisions for an automatic stay of legal proceedings during the motion's review, mandates a hearing within 60 days, and requires the court to award court costs and attorney's fees to the prevailing party. The act does not apply to actions against governmental units, imminent public health threats, or commercial communications directly related to selling goods or services. Importantly, the law is designed to be broadly interpreted to protect constitutional rights and will take effect on January 1, 2026, applying only to civil actions filed on or after that date. The bill aims to provide a swift legal mechanism to prevent frivolous lawsuits that might otherwise chill protected speech.

Justice

Judiciary and Rules Committee (S)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2025/legislation/S1001/