Of the many laudable bills wending their way through the Judiciary Committee of our Legislature, one in particular deserves our attention and support. Senate Bill 981, An Act Concerning Strategic Litigation Against Public Participation And A Special Motion To Dismiss, is an attempt for Connecticut to join some 29 other states and the District of Columbia in having a so-called anti-SLAPP statute.
The bill essentially creates a special motion to dismiss, which must be filed no later than 60 days after service of a complaint, counter claim or cross claim which complains about the exercise of free speech or right to petition the government in a matter of public concern. Matters of public concern include issues related to health or safety, environmental, economic or community well-being, the government, zoning and other regulatory matters or a public official or public figure.
