Senate Bill 666 aims to adopt the Uniform Public Expression Protection Act (UPEPA) in Wisconsin, providing legal protections for individuals involved in civil actions related to public expression. The bill allows defendants to file an expedited special motion to dismiss claims based on their communications in governmental proceedings or their exercise of constitutional rights concerning public issues. The court is required to hold a hearing on such motions within 60 days and must stay all related proceedings, including discovery, until a ruling is made. If the court finds in favor of the moving party, it must dismiss the cause of action with prejudice, while also allowing for appeals and the awarding of costs and attorney fees.

The bill introduces new statutory language, specifically creating section 802.065, which outlines the scope and procedures for the special motion to dismiss. It clarifies that the protections do not apply to actions against governmental units or employees acting in official capacities, nor to those primarily engaged in selling goods or services when the claim arises from such sales. Additionally, it amends section 802.06 to incorporate the new provisions related to the special motion, ensuring that the legal framework supports the expedited process for protecting public expression rights.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 802.06(2)(b), 802.06