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Bill

SB 251

Civil Actions - Maryland Uniform Public Expression Protection Act

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Shelly Hettleman and 1 co-sponsor

Maryland enacts anti-SLAPP protections allowing defendants to quickly dismiss lawsuits targeting free speech on public matters, reducing litigation abuse against speakers.

Hearing 1/29 at 3:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · SB 251

Legislative bill overview

SB 251 enacts Maryland's version of the Uniform Public Expression Protection Act (UPEPA), which is a model law designed to protect defendants from Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs). The bill would allow defendants to file a special motion to dismiss lawsuits that arise from their exercise of free speech rights related to matters of public concern, shifting the burden to plaintiffs to prove their claims have merit before proceeding.

Why is this important

SLAPP suits use the courts to intimidate, silence, or financially drain individuals or organizations for their public speech or civic participation—such as criticizing local government, attending public meetings, or speaking to media. Adopting UPEPA would provide Maryland residents with a procedural mechanism to quickly dismiss meritless cases, reducing legal costs and chilling effects on free speech. Currently, Maryland lacks a comprehensive anti-SLAPP statute, making residents vulnerable to these litigation tactics.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of "public concern": Disputes over what constitutes protected expression—whether criticism of private businesses, corporate conduct, or only government/public officials qualifies as matters of public concern
  • Balance with legitimate claims: Concerns that anti-SLAPP protections might too easily dismiss valid defamation or tort claims, disadvantaging actual victims seeking remedy
  • Burden and standard of proof: Arguments about whether plaintiffs should prove claims by "clear and convincing evidence" (higher standard) or preponderance of evidence (lower standard) before a motion to dismiss is decided

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

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