Bill > H0107

This bill expands Vermont's anti-SLAPP (Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation) statute to provide legal protections for individuals who make good faith reports or complaints about sex offenses and sexual harassment. Specifically, the bill adds protection for reports related to lewdness, prostitution, sexual assault, workplace sexual harassment policies, and retaliation for making such reports. Under the amended law, a defendant can file a special motion to strike a lawsuit if they believe the legal action is meant to suppress their free speech or right to petition the government. The court will grant the motion unless the plaintiff can prove the defendant's report was without reasonable factual support and caused actual injury. If the motion to strike is granted, the defendant may be awarded compensatory damages, costs, attorney's fees, and potentially punitive damages. The bill aims to prevent frivolous lawsuits that might discourage individuals from reporting sexual misconduct and provides a legal mechanism to quickly dismiss such retaliatory actions. The law will take effect on July 1, 2025, and applies to a wide range of statements made in public forums, legislative proceedings, or concerning issues of public interest.

Justice

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.107