HB 327

Abstract

The purpose of this Act is to protect victims of sexual assault, discrimination, or harassment from retaliatory lawsuits that arise when a victim of sexual assault discloses information regarding an act of sexual assault, discrimination, or harassment. The first part of this Act protects assault victims from defamation lawsuits by: 1. Placing a higher burden of proof on the complainant, even if the complainant is a private figure; and 2. Entitling a prevailing defendant to attorneys’ fees and costs, treble the amount of actual damages, and punitive damages. The second part of this Act prohibits any provision in a settlement agreement that prevents the disclosure of information related to a claim of sexual assault, harassment, or discrimination.