When the state legislature returns from spring break, a Missouri Senate committee could vote on protections against frivolous lawsuits that aim to silence people’s free speech rights.
Sen. Mike Henderson, R-Desloge, is sponsoring a bill to take on what are known as SLAPPS, or strategic lawsuits against public participation. His legislation covers communications made in legislative, executive, judicial, administrative, or other governmental proceedings, as well as communications on issues under review in such proceedings.
“So, to put it really simply, what we’re trying to do is keep somebody from trying to silence your First Amendment rights by suing you and discouraging you because they could drain your pocketbook,” said Henderson.
Two key supporters of Henderson’s bill include the Missouri Press Association and the Missouri Broadcasters Association.
“News organizations and journalists across the country are frequent targets of these meritless lawsuits that aim to silence reporting through expensive and protracted litigation,” said Chad Stebbins with the Missouri Press Association. “Missouri’s current statutes only protect conduct or speech undertaken or made in connection with a public hearing or public meeting.”
Another provision of Senate Bill 503 allows parties to have the case dismissed within 60 days of being sued. The court must rule on the motion within 60 days, and all other proceedings are on hold during that period.
Susan Klein with Missouri Right to Life also supports the effort.
“You know, obviously we do have freedom of speech but sometimes people or organizations are intimidated by the threat of a lawsuit and are encouraged to not speak out,” she said. “So, because of this harassment and intimidation, need to have some added protection for our freedom of speech.”
No one testified in opposition to the bill.
The Missouri Legislature is scheduled to get back to work on March 24.
Click here for more information.
Copyright © 2025 Missourinet