Lawmaker Renews Push Against ‘Strategic’ Suits

Charging that “citizens are being harassed and intimidated by unscrupulous developers and corporations,” Assemblywoman Gwen Moore on Wednesday announced a renewed effort for legislation to protect citizens from lawsuits when they speak out on public issues.

The Los Angeles-based Democrat reintroduced a bill she wrote last year, which was passed by the Legislature but vetoed by Gov. Pete Wilson.

Moore’s proposal would make it more difficult for developers or others to file so called “SLAPP” suits--”strategic lawsuits against public participation.” Developers increasingly use such suits, Moore contended, to “stifle protest.”

Under the bill, someone who wished to file suit against a homeowners’ association would have to prove, before filing, that the case had merit, Moore said.