This Bill Could Put A Stop To Censorship By Lawsuit
Representatives Jamie Raskin and Kevin Kiley introduced the Free Speech Protection Act to combat SLAPP lawsuits, providing federal protections for free speech and allowing quick dismissal of meritless cases.
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A new bipartisan bill, the Free Speech Protection Act, has been introduced by Representatives Jamie Raskin and Kevin Kiley to combat Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs). These lawsuits are often used by wealthy individuals and corporations to intimidate journalists, activists, and others who express dissenting opinions. While 34 states have anti-SLAPP laws, there is currently no federal protection, leaving many vulnerable to meritless lawsuits in federal courts. The proposed legislation aims to provide a mechanism for defendants to swiftly dismiss such lawsuits, with courts required to make decisions within 90 days. If successful, defendants could also recover legal fees from plaintiffs. The bill is seen as a crucial step in safeguarding free speech and ensuring that individuals can speak out on public issues without fear of retribution through legal action. Examples of SLAPP lawsuits include cases against environmental activists and journalists, highlighting the need for stronger protections at the federal level. The Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) advocates for the passage of this bill to enhance the rights of all individuals to express their views and engage in public discourse.
- The Free Speech Protection Act aims to protect against SLAPP lawsuits at the federal level.
- Current state anti-SLAPP laws do not apply in federal courts, leaving many vulnerable.
- The bill allows defendants to dismiss meritless lawsuits quickly and recover legal fees.
- SLAPP lawsuits have been used to intimidate activists and journalists.
- EFF supports the bill as a means to safeguard free speech rights.
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1 commentsSo this bill will go nowhere, right? There is no way to get through committees, readings, debate, etc etc.
They have to reintroduce it in January, correct? Anything accomplished this month is thrown away and they start from scratch, right? So why do this thing now? Why not wait another month?
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