"Freedom of Speech Protection Act"; create.

HB 1504, the "Freedom of Speech Protection Act," creates a legal process to quickly dismiss lawsuits targeting speech on public issues. It requires courts to rule on a "special motion to dismiss" within 60 days if a case involves protected speech (e.g., communications about government proceedings or public concerns), while excluding government employees acting officially and commercial speech disputes. If the motion succeeds, the moving party may recover attorney fees. The bill died in committee on February 4, 2025, and would have directly affected individuals, organizations, or media sued for public-interest speech in civil cases.