This bill establishes a new chapter in South Dakota law focused on anti-SLAPP (Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation) actions, aimed at protecting individuals' constitutional rights, particularly freedom of speech. It defines "protected public expression" to include communications made in governmental proceedings and on matters of public concern. The bill outlines specific exceptions where these provisions do not apply, such as actions against governmental units or employees acting in an official capacity, and actions related to the sale or lease of goods or services.

The bill also sets forth procedures for filing a special motion for expedited relief to dismiss such causes of action, requiring the court to hear these motions within a specified timeframe. It includes provisions for staying other proceedings during the motion process and allows for limited discovery if necessary. Additionally, it mandates that the court award costs and attorney fees to the prevailing party in these motions, while emphasizing that the provisions should be broadly construed to protect constitutional rights.