summary
Introduced
02/06/2023
02/06/2023
In Committee
02/06/2023
02/06/2023
Crossed Over
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 modify the conditions under which a lawsuit is considered a Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation (SLAPP suit) in Maryland. It establishes new standards for determining when a lawsuit is a SLAPP suit, including that it must be brought against a person based on an act or statement made in furtherance of the person's right to petition or free speech on a public issue or matter of public interest. The bill also provides exceptions where a lawsuit is not considered a SLAPP suit, such as if it is brought in the public interest or involves a defendant primarily engaged in selling or leasing goods or services. Additionally, the bill sets new requirements for how a defendant can move to dismiss an alleged SLAPP suit, including shifting the burden to the plaintiff to show the lawsuit has substantial justification in law and fact.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Senate Judicial Proceedings Hearing (13:00:00 3/15/2023 ) (on 03/15/2023)
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/SB0619?ys=2023RS |
| BillText | https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/2023RS/bills/sb/sb0619f.pdf |
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