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SB 167

Courts - Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Shelly Hettleman

SB 167 shields Maryland residents from frivolous lawsuits targeting public speech by enabling early dismissal and attorney fee recovery.

Hearing 1/15 at 12:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · SB 167

Legislative bill overview

SB 167 is an anti-SLAPP (Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation) bill designed to protect individuals and organizations from frivolous lawsuits intended to silence public speech and civic engagement. The bill would allow defendants to file early motions to dismiss such lawsuits and recover attorney's fees if they prevail, expediting resolution of cases that lack legal merit but aim to intimidate speakers.

Why is this important

SLAPP suits use the threat of expensive litigation to discourage legitimate public participation in government proceedings, community activism, and media commentary. Maryland currently lacks comprehensive anti-SLAPP protections that exist in 32+ other states, leaving residents vulnerable to costly legal harassment regardless of whether claims ultimately succeed. This bill would reduce barriers to speaking out on public matters and reduce court docket burden from frivolous cases.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition scope: Disagreement over how broadly "public participation" is defined—businesses argue protections could shield legitimate defendants from accountability in commercial disputes
  • Plaintiff burden: Debate over how much evidence plaintiffs must present before anti-SLAPP motions are granted, balancing access to courts against protecting speakers
  • Attorney's fees provisions: Concerns that mandatory fee-shifting could deter legitimate lawsuits or create unequal outcomes for individuals with fewer resources

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

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