Bill > HB911

This bill amends Georgia's libel and slander laws to protect individuals who report incidents of sexual assault, sexual harassment, or sex discrimination from defamation lawsuits. Specifically, the bill prevents someone from being sued for defamation if they make a communication about such an incident when they reasonably believe the incident occurred and they do so without malice. Additionally, if someone is sued despite these protections and successfully defends themselves in court, they are entitled to recover their attorney's fees, litigation expenses, and court costs. The purpose of this legislation appears to be encouraging individuals to come forward and report sexual misconduct without fear of being sued for speaking out, while still providing a safeguard against intentionally false or malicious statements. By setting a "reasonable belief" standard, the bill aims to balance protecting potential victims' ability to share their experiences with preventing completely unfounded accusations.

Justice

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/71994