The Kansas House of Representatives advanced an effort Monday to crack down on lawsuits that aim to stifle unfavorable speech.
House Bill 2054 received early approval on a voice vote. The bill is designed to block SLAPPs.
SLAPPs, or Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation, are legal efforts designed to stop speech and have been directed against a variety of targets: individuals speaking at meetings, those posting online reviews and the media.