summary
Introduced
01/13/2023
01/13/2023
In Committee
03/03/2023
03/03/2023
Crossed Over
03/02/2023
03/02/2023
Passed
Dead
04/10/2023
04/10/2023
Introduced Session
2023 Regular Session
Bill Summary
AN ACT concerning Courts - Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation FOR the purpose of altering the conditions under which a lawsuit is a strategic lawsuit against public participation (SLAPP suit); altering the conditions under which a defendant in a SLAPP suit is not civilly liable for certain communications; establishing certain standards and requirements relating to a motion to dismiss an alleged SLAPP suit; and generally relating to SLAPP suits. BY repealing and reenacting, with amendments, Article - Courts and Judicial Proceedings Section 5-807 Annotated Code of Maryland (2020 Replacement Volume and 2022 Supplement)
AI Summary
This bill aims to alter the conditions under which a lawsuit is considered a strategic lawsuit against public participation (SLAPP suit) and the protections available for defendants in such suits. It establishes standards and requirements for a motion to dismiss an alleged SLAPP suit, including placing the burden on the plaintiff to show the suit has substantial justification. The bill also provides for the award of costs and reasonable attorney's fees to the moving party if the court grants an anti-SLAPP motion, and allows for such an award to the responding party if the motion is found to be frivolous or solely intended to cause unnecessary delay. The bill applies prospectively and takes effect on October 1, 2023.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Referred Judicial Proceedings (on 03/03/2023)
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0129?ys=2023RS |
| BillText | https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/2023RS/bills/hb/hb0129t.pdf |
| Vote Image | https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/2023RS/votes_comm/hb0129_jud.pdf |
| BillText | https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/2023RS/bills/hb/hb0129f.pdf |
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