"Freedom of Speech Protection Act"; create.

HB 1476, the "Freedom of Speech Protection Act," creates a procedure for quickly dismissing lawsuits that challenge protected speech in government contexts. It allows defendants to file a special motion to dismiss within 60 days of being sued, requiring courts to rule on these motions within 60 days and stay other proceedings during the process. The act applies to speech in legislative, judicial, or governmental proceedings but excludes cases involving government employees acting officially, public health/safety enforcement, or commercial speech about goods/services. If successful, the moving party can recover attorney fees and costs under Section 10. The bill died in committee in February 2026 and did not become law.