Bill > SB1067

This bill establishes the Uniform Public Expression Protection Act, which provides a legal mechanism for quickly dismissing lawsuits that target someone's public speech or participation in governmental proceedings. The act applies to causes of action involving communications in legislative, executive, judicial, administrative, or other governmental proceedings, or communications on matters of public concern that are protected by constitutional free speech rights. When someone is sued under such circumstances, they can file a special motion to dismiss within 60 days of being served, which automatically stays (pauses) most legal proceedings. The court must then hear the motion and can dismiss the case if the person being sued can demonstrate that their speech falls under the act's protections and the person who filed the lawsuit cannot establish a prima facie case. If the motion to dismiss is successful, the court must award the moving party their costs and reasonable attorney's fees. The bill explicitly does not apply to actions against governmental units, actions by governmental units to protect public safety, or actions against businesses related to their goods or services. The act is designed to be broadly interpreted to protect constitutional rights of free speech, assembly, and association, and is intended to provide a quick and efficient way to stop lawsuits that might otherwise discourage people from speaking out on public issues.

Justice

https://www.senate.mo.gov/26info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=315