Bill > S1143

This bill modifies Massachusetts law to provide stronger legal protections for individuals reporting incidents of sexual assault, harassment, and discrimination. Specifically, the bill creates a new section in Chapter 278 of the General Laws that establishes a communication privilege for individuals who, without malice, share information about sexual assault, harassment, or discrimination. The bill defines "communication" broadly to include various types of discriminatory or harassing acts in workplace, housing, and other contexts. If someone is sued for defamation after making such a privileged communication, and they prevail in the lawsuit, they are entitled to recover reasonable attorney's fees, costs, and treble damages. The bill applies to individuals who have a reasonable basis to file a complaint about sexual assault, harassment, or discrimination, regardless of whether they actually filed such a complaint. Additionally, the bill maintains existing protections for fair and true reports of judicial, legislative, or official proceedings, while clarifying that these protections do not extend to additional malicious content added to such reports. The goal appears to be encouraging reporting of harassment and discrimination by providing legal safeguards for individuals who speak out about their experiences.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1143