Afraid of getting SLAPPed?

What is SLAPP? It stands for Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation. There are forces in Mt. Lebanon who have used this technique to stifle critics, whether they be bloggers or private citizens. The message is always, "Speak up and we'll threaten to sue you."

How many are afraid to try to stop the turf project for fear that Mt. Lebanon will counter sue? I have heard that over and over. Look at what neighbors are currently faced with:

Little, if any, construction since before Thanksgiving. The contractor is waiting for payment for Change Order Number 1 with more to follow. Pools of mud. OSHA visits. Neighbors protesting. Planting anti turf signs in their yards. Speaking at commission meetings. Parents speaking about health and safety issues. National and local pediatricians speaking out. Environmentalists opposed to the turf project. All powerless. All fearful of getting sued by outspoken Mt. Lebanon attorneys.

So what can we do? The following is for informational purposes only. It is not legal advice. I have found the Pittsburgh ACLU to be quite helpful.

A Guide for Community Residents and Environmental Justice Activists

Online Journalist Successfully Defended Against Lawsuit Intended to Silence Criticism Included in this article is the new ACLU Online Toolkit to help those who are facing SLAPP lawsuits.

Pennsylvania Lawmakers Move Forward On Anti-SLAPP Legislation