Bill > S756

This bill amends Section 59H of Chapter 231 of the General Laws to strengthen the anti-SLAPP (Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation) law in Massachusetts. The key provisions include: (1) Recognizing that such lawsuits are disfavored and should be resolved quickly to protect First Amendment rights; (2) Allowing a party to file a special motion to dismiss civil claims based on their exercise of the right to petition or freedom of speech/expression on matters of public concern; (3) Granting the special motion to dismiss unless the opposing party shows the moving party's actions were devoid of reasonable factual or legal basis and caused actual injury; (4) Staying discovery during the special motion process; (5) Allowing the moving party to appeal a denial of the special motion; and (6) Defining "freedom of speech/expression" and "right of petition" broadly to provide strong protections for citizens and organizations engaged in discussions on public issues.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/190/S756