Bill > SB167

This bill updates Maryland's law on Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPP suits), which are legal actions intended to silence or intimidate individuals exercising their free speech or petition rights. The bill broadly defines a SLAPP suit as a lawsuit brought against a person for acts or statements made in furtherance of their constitutional rights of free speech or petition, such as speaking at public meetings, communicating with government officials, or discussing public issues. The legislation provides robust protections for defendants, requiring courts to hold hearings expeditiously and placing the burden on plaintiffs to demonstrate substantial legal and factual justification for their lawsuit. If a court finds the lawsuit to be a SLAPP suit, it may dismiss the case and award the defendant's legal costs and attorney's fees. The bill includes exceptions for lawsuits brought in genuine public interest or involving commercial speech, ensuring that meritorious legal claims can still proceed. Notably, the law will only apply to cases arising after its effective date of October 1, 2025, and is designed to protect individuals from being silenced through legal intimidation while maintaining a balance that allows legitimate legal claims to be heard.

Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0167?ys=2025RS