Bill > SB2381

This bill, known as the Uniform Public Expression Act, establishes a process for quickly dismissing civil lawsuits that may infringe upon a person's rights to free speech, press, assembly, petition, or association on matters of public concern, as guaranteed by the U.S. and Mississippi Constitutions. It defines terms like "goods or services" (excluding creative works) and "governmental unit" (any public entity). The act applies to communications made in governmental proceedings or on issues being considered by the government, as well as the exercise of constitutional rights on public matters, but it does not apply to actions against government entities or their employees acting officially, or to lawsuits against businesses selling goods or services related to those sales. If a lawsuit falls under this act, the defendant can file a "special motion for expedited relief" within 60 days to dismiss the case. Filing this motion automatically pauses all other legal proceedings, including discovery, though limited discovery may be allowed if crucial for determining if the act's standards are met. The court must hear the motion within 60 days and rule on it within another 60 days, considering the case's pleadings and evidence similar to a summary judgment motion. If the defendant successfully shows the act applies and the plaintiff fails to establish a valid claim or a genuine issue of material fact, the case will be dismissed with prejudice. The defendant can appeal a denial of their motion, and if they win the motion, they are generally awarded court costs, attorney's fees, and litigation expenses, unless the motion was frivolous or intended to delay. The act is to be broadly interpreted to protect these fundamental rights and will take effect on July 1, 2026.

Justice

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2026/pdf/history/SB/SB2381.xml