An Act relative to strengthen the Commonwealth's Anti-SLAPP law

This bill strengthens Massachusetts' anti-SLAPP law to protect free speech by creating a streamlined process for dismissing lawsuits that target public discourse. It allows individuals or organizations sued for expressing views on public issues (like criticizing products or policies) to file a "special motion to dismiss" that must be heard quickly by courts. If granted, the court awards the defendant all legal costs and fees, and discovery is paused during the motion. The law explicitly covers speech on "matters of public concern," including criticism of goods, services, or public policy in any media format.