The proposed bill, known as the "Uniform Public Expression Protection Act," aims to safeguard individuals from lawsuits that may deter their rights to free expression and participation in government, particularly against Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPP suits). The bill establishes a public policy in Michigan that promotes citizens' rights to engage in governmental processes and provides legal mechanisms to minimize the impact of such lawsuits. Key provisions include expedited judicial review, a stay on discovery during this review, and the establishment of a burden of proof for the parties involved.
Additionally, the bill outlines specific definitions and conditions under which a cause of action may be considered eligible for protection under this act. It allows parties to file a special motion for expedited relief to dismiss actions deemed eligible, with the court required to rule on such motions within a specified timeframe. The act also stipulates that if a party prevails in these motions, they are entitled to recover court costs and attorney fees. Overall, the legislation seeks to ensure that the rights to free speech, assembly, and petitioning the government are robustly protected in Michigan.