Bill > SB503

This bill establishes the Uniform Public Expression Protection Act (UPEPA), which creates a legal mechanism to quickly dismiss lawsuits that target someone's public speech or participation in government proceedings. The act allows individuals to file a special motion to dismiss a lawsuit within 60 days of being served if the lawsuit relates to their communication in a governmental proceeding, discussion of a public issue, or exercise of constitutional rights like free speech or assembly. If the person filing the motion can show the lawsuit falls under these protections, the burden shifts to the person who filed the original lawsuit to prove their case has merit. While the motion is being considered, most legal proceedings are automatically stayed (paused). If the motion to dismiss is successful, the court must award the moving party their legal costs and attorney's fees. The law does not apply to cases against government entities, cases involving imminent public health threats, or cases against businesses related to their own goods or services. The bill is designed to be broadly interpreted to protect constitutional rights of free expression and is set to take effect on August 28, 2025, applying to civil actions filed on or after that date.

Justice

https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=397427