Establishes the South Carolina Public Expression Protection Act to safeguard free speech and assembly rights.

The bill adds the South Carolina Public Expression Protection Act to the state code, aiming to protect free speech and assembly rights. It applies to civil actions based on a person's communication in governmental proceedings or exercising constitutional rights. The act allows for expedited relief motions to dismiss such causes of action, with specific timelines and conditions for court hearings and rulings. It also outlines procedures for stays, discovery, and awarding costs and fees. The act takes effect on June 1, 2025, and applies to actions filed after this date.

Establishes the South Carolina Public Expression Protection Act to safeguard free speech and assembly rights.

The bill adds the South Carolina Public Expression Protection Act to the state code, aiming to protect free speech and assembly rights. It applies to civil actions based on a person's communication in governmental proceedings or exercising constitutional rights. The act allows for expedited relief motions to dismiss such causes of action, with specific timelines and conditions for court hearings and rulings. It also outlines procedures for stays, discovery, and awarding costs and fees. The act takes effect on June 1, 2025, and applies to actions filed after this date.