HB 1459

Bill Subjects

Crimes And Offenses, Criminal Courts And Court Procedures Human Services Public Safety

Abstract

Repeals and replaces all provisions concerning special relief for certain civil actions pertaining to the exercise of certain constitutionally protected freedoms. Provides that a party may petition a court for expedited relief from certain civil causes of action based upon: (1) certain communications related to: (A) legislative; (B) executive; (C) judicial; (D) administrative; or (E) governmental; functioning; or (2) the right to: (A) freedom of speech; (B) freedom of the press; (C) assemble or petition; or (D) free association. Specifies certain exemptions. Requires the staying of all proceedings, including discovery, when a motion for expedited relief is filed. Specifies certain exemptions. Specifies certain time limits for the filing of certain motions and appeals and the issuance of certain court orders and rulings. Specifies certain exemptions. Allows limited discovery and consideration of specified topics during a stay of proceedings in certain instances. Requires a cause of action to be dismissed with prejudice when a court grants a motion for expedited relief. Allows parties to voluntarily: (1) withdraw; or (2) sever; causes of action subject to expedited relief. Permits the awarding of reasonable court costs, attorney's fees, and litigation expenses in certain instances.