The proposed bill would amend current statutes by establishing specific criteria for determining acts of defamation, particularly distinguishing between private figures and public figures in relation to public and private concerns. Under the new provisions, a person would commit defamation if they publish a statement that is provably false, perceived as factual, and made with knowledge of its falsity or reckless disregard for the truth. The bill also outlines the requirements for statements that injure a plaintiff's reputation, including identifying the plaintiff by name or implying a defamatory meaning.

Additionally, the bill introduces a statute of limitations for defamation actions involving statements published on the internet, requiring such actions to be initiated within one year of the removal of the defamatory statement from the internet platform. It defines "internet-based platform" to include various digital services that facilitate user interaction and content sharing. The bill aims to clarify the legal framework surrounding defamation while ensuring that the definitions and requirements are consistent with contemporary communication methods.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 32-3230.03
Senate Engrossed Version: 12-651.01
House Engrossed Version: 12-651.01