arrow_back Back to App

Free Speech Protection: Quick Dismissal of Lawsuits Designed to Silence Public Participation.

This law establishes a mechanism for the rapid dismissal of Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs), which are used to intimidate citizens, journalists, and activists for exercising their right to free speech on public matters. This allows individuals who criticize authorities or corporations to quickly end meritless litigation and recover legal costs, safeguarding their finances and constitutional rights.
Key points
Introduces a "Special Motion to Dismiss" procedure to quickly terminate lawsuits intended solely to silence public criticism or participation.
Filing the motion automatically halts most court proceedings and discovery, protecting the defendant from expensive, drawn-out legal battles.
If the lawsuit is dismissed as a SLAPP, the winning party is presumed entitled to recover reasonable attorneys' fees and costs, deterring frivolous litigation.
article Official text account_balance Process page
Expired
Citizen Poll
No votes cast
Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_5438
Sponsor: Sen. Wyden, Ron [D-OR]
Process start date: 2024-12-05
Lustra uses Artificial Intelligence. Verify details in source documents.
Summarized by: gemini-flash-latest
Source data: api.congress.gov
AI work logs for this document launch

OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Free Speech Protection Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 118_S_5438.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2024-12-05.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Introduces a "Special Motion to Dismiss" procedure to quickly terminate lawsuits intended solely to silence public criticism or participation.
  • Filing the motion automatically halts most court proceedings and discovery, protecting the defendant from expensive, drawn-out legal battles.
  • If the lawsuit is dismissed as a SLAPP, the winning party is presumed entitled to recover reasonable attorneys' fees and costs, deterring frivolous litigation.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Sen. Wyden, Ron [D-OR].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Introduced in Senate

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-26.

CATEGORIES

Courts and Law Media and Culture