HB5186

Establishes the West Virginia Public Participation Act to protect free speech and petition rights.

The West Virginia Public Participation Act aims to safeguard individuals and entities exercising their constitutional rights of free speech, petition, and association on matters of public concern. The Act allows defending parties to petition for dismissal of strategic lawsuits against public participation, which are based on lawful exercises of these rights. It sets procedures for reviewing such petitions, including expedited hearings and judicial review. The Act also provides for the award of costs, attorneys' fees, and other relief to defending parties if a petition is granted.