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MD SB1042

MD SB1042
Civil Actions – Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation


summary

Introduced
02/19/2020
In Committee
03/02/2020
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
03/18/2020

Introduced Session

2020 Regular Session

Bill Summary

Altering the conditions under which a lawsuit is considered a strategic lawsuit against public participation (SLAPP suit); specifying the conditions under which a lawsuit is not considered a SLAPP suit; altering the conditions under which a defendant in a SLAPP suit is not civilly liable for certain communications; providing for a plaintiff's burden and the award of certain fees in connection with a motion to dismiss; providing for the prospective application of the Act; etc.

AI Summary

This bill alters the conditions under which a lawsuit is considered a strategic lawsuit against public participation (SLAPP suit). It specifies that a lawsuit is not a SLAPP suit if it is brought in the public interest or on behalf of the general public, or if the defendant primarily engages in the business of selling or leasing goods or services and made statements about their own or a competitor's business. The bill also provides for a defendant's burden and the award of certain fees in connection with a motion to dismiss a SLAPP suit, and applies prospectively to causes of action arising after the effective date of October 1, 2020.

Committee Categories

Justice

Sponsors (3)

Last Action

Hearing 3/12 at 1:00 p.m. (on 03/04/2020)

bill text


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