Bill > HB07134

This bill extends Connecticut's anti-SLAPP (Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation) statute to provide enhanced legal protections for individuals making privileged communications related to sexual assault, sexual harassment, and sex-based discrimination. Specifically, the bill modifies the existing law to include new categories of protected speech, such as written communications made without actual malice concerning alleged criminal actions or discriminatory practices. The bill allows individuals who believe they are being sued for exercising their right to free speech, petition the government, or associate with others to file a special motion to dismiss the lawsuit. If successful, the moving party can be awarded costs and attorney's fees. The bill provides an expedited court hearing process for such motions, typically within 60 days of filing, and requires the court to stay all discovery during this process. The expanded protections are designed to prevent retaliatory lawsuits that might discourage individuals from speaking out about sexual misconduct or discrimination, while still maintaining a mechanism for legitimate claims to proceed if there is probable cause. The bill will take effect on October 1, 2025, and apply to civil actions filed on or after that date.

Justice

Judiciary Committee (J)

https://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=HB07134&which_year=2025