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HSB 116

A bill for an act creating a special motion for expedited relief in actions involving the exercise of the right of freedom of speech and of the press, the right to assemble and petition, and the right of association, and including applicability provisions.

2025-2026 Regular Session

HF 472 allows individuals to quickly dismiss lawsuits that threaten free speech and assembly rights, ensuring protection against frivolous legal actions.

Committee report approving bill, renumbered as HF 472.
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Bill Summary · HSB 116

Summary of HSB 116 (Renumbered as HF 472)

Purpose and Intent

HSB 116 aims to establish a special motion for expedited relief in legal actions that involve the exercise of fundamental rights, specifically the rights of freedom of speech, press, assembly, petition, and association. The bill seeks to provide a mechanism for individuals to quickly dismiss lawsuits that may infringe upon these rights, thereby protecting free expression and civic engagement.

Key Provisions

  • Special Motion for Expedited Relief:

    • Parties may file a special motion to dismiss a cause of action related to the exercise of the aforementioned rights within 60 days of being served.
    • The motion can be filed later upon showing good cause.

  • Stay of Proceedings:

    • The filing of the motion automatically stays all other proceedings between the parties involved.
    • The court has discretion to stay proceedings involving other parties if the outcome of the motion is relevant to those proceedings.

  • Hearing Timeline:

    • A hearing on the motion must occur no later than 60 days after the motion is filed, unless the court allows for a later date for discovery or other good cause.

  • Stay Duration:

    • The stay remains in effect until a ruling on the motion is made and the 30-day appeal period following that ruling has concluded.

  • Limited Discovery:

    • During the stay, the court may permit limited discovery if a party demonstrates that specific information is necessary to meet their burden under the bill.

Exclusions

The bill explicitly does not apply to:
- Causes of action against governmental units or their employees acting in an official capacity.
- Actions taken by governmental units to protect against imminent threats to public health or safety.
- Lawsuits arising from communications related to the sale or lease of goods or services, with specific exclusions for artistic or journalistic works.

Affected Parties

This legislation primarily affects individuals and organizations engaged in activities protected by the rights of free speech, press, assembly, petition, and association. It provides them with a legal tool to defend against potentially frivolous lawsuits that could hinder their rights.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: February 3, 2025
  • Subcommittee Meeting: February 11, 2025
  • Committee Vote: February 18, 2025 (Approved 19-0)
  • Committee Report: February 19, 2025 (Bill renumbered as HF 472)

Conclusion

HSB 116 represents a significant step towards safeguarding constitutional rights by streamlining the legal process for individuals facing lawsuits that may infringe upon their freedoms. By allowing for expedited motions to dismiss, the bill aims to reduce the burden of litigation on those exercising their rights.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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