Courts - Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation

SB 167 clarifies when lawsuits targeting public speech qualify as SLAPP suits (strategic lawsuits against public participation), which aim to silence criticism on public issues. It defines a SLAPP suit as one brought against someone who communicated about government actions or public concerns (e.g., in public forums, to officials, or in legislative proceedings) and is intended to deter such speech. The bill requires defendants to file a motion to dismiss SLAPP suits, shifts the burden to plaintiffs to prove "substantial justification," and mandates courts to rule quickly. If dismissed, defendants may recover attorney fees. This directly affects citizens, journalists, activists, and officials who engage with public issues, strengthening protections for free speech and petition rights under Maryland law.