Bill > H4018

This bill amends Massachusetts state law to provide legal protections for sexual assault, harassment, and discrimination survivors who speak out about their experiences. Specifically, the bill creates a new legal provision that prevents survivors from being sued for defamation when they communicate about their assault without malicious intent. If a survivor is sued for slander or libel related to such a communication and successfully defends themselves in court, they would be entitled to recover reasonable attorney's fees, court costs, and potentially receive treble damages (three times the actual damages) for any harm caused by the defamation lawsuit. The protection applies to individuals who have had a reasonable basis to file a complaint about sexual assault, harassment, or discrimination, regardless of whether they actually filed a formal complaint. This legislation aims to remove legal barriers that might discourage survivors from sharing their experiences and seeking support, while also providing a strong deterrent against frivolous defamation suits targeting those who speak out about sexual misconduct.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4018