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SB 80

AN ACT TO AMEND TITLE 10 OF THE DELAWARE CODE RELATING TO THE UNIFORM PUBLIC EXPRESSION PROTECTION ACT.

153rd General Assembly (2025-2026) Introduced by Mara Gorman and 11 co-sponsors

Delaware strengthens anti-SLAPP protections to help citizens more easily dismiss lawsuits filed to suppress legitimate public speech and petition activity.

Signed by Governor
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 80

Legislative bill overview

SB 80 amends Delaware's Uniform Public Expression Protection Act (UPEPPA) to strengthen protections for citizens engaging in public expression and petition activities. The bill modifies existing anti-SLAPP (Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation) provisions to make it easier for defendants to dismiss lawsuits filed to silence legitimate public speech or advocacy.

Why is this important

Anti-SLAPP laws serve as a critical defense mechanism against litigation designed to intimidate and suppress public participation in government and civic discourse. This amendment expands those protections, potentially reducing the financial and legal burden on ordinary citizens, journalists, and activists who face expensive lawsuits for speaking out on matters of public concern.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of "public expression": Disagreement may exist over how broadly the amendments define what qualifies as protected public expression versus defamatory private speech, with business interests concerned about reduced ability to pursue legitimate defamation claims.
  • Early dismissal thresholds: The amendments likely lower the evidentiary bar for defendants to obtain early dismissal, which some argue protects free speech but others contend may dismiss legitimate claims before evidence is fully presented.
  • Balance with private rights: Tension exists between protecting public participation and preserving individuals' and businesses' right to sue for actual damages caused by false or malicious statements.

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

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