A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to establish a procedure to dismiss strategic lawsuits against public participation brought by governments, agents, instrumentalities, and entities of foreign adversaries and other countries that have engaged in a pattern of frivolous litigation against United States persons intended to deter the free exercise of rights under the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States, and for other purposes.

# Summary of S 3983 **What the Bill Would Do:** This bill would create a legal procedure to quickly dismiss lawsuits filed by foreign governments or their agents against American citizens, particularly when those lawsuits appear designed to silence free speech rather than pursue legitimate claims. These are known as "SLAPP" suits (Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation). The bill specifically targets foreign adversaries and countries with a history of using frivolous litigation to intimidate Americans exercising their First Amendment rights. **Who It Affects:** The bill primarily protects American individuals and organizations from foreign legal harassment. It would affect foreign governments and their entities that file such lawsuits, by making it easier for U.S.

courts to dismiss their cases early. Americans who speak critically about foreign governments, journalists, activists, and others engaged in public discourse could benefit from faster legal protection. **Current Status:** The bill (S 3983) was introduced by Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) in the 119th Congress and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full Senate. No specific action has been taken on it since introduction.