The MS Uniform Public Expression Protection Act; create to regulate strategic lawsuits against public participation.

HB 1268, the Mississippi Uniform Public Expression Protection Act, protects individuals and organizations from being sued for expressing opinions on public issues in government settings, such as legislative hearings or public debates. The bill allows defendants to file a special motion to dismiss such lawsuits within 60 days, automatically pausing all other court proceedings until the motion is decided. If the motion succeeds, the lawsuit is dismissed with prejudice, and the winning party may recover attorney fees. This law aims to prevent lawsuits designed to silence public participation in civic matters, applying to cases filed on or after July 1, 2026.