This bill amends New Jersey's anti-SLAPP (Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation) law to extend protections specifically to individuals who report or complain about sexual assault, harassment, or discrimination. The new provisions allow these complainants to seek dismissal of SLAPP claims if they can demonstrate that their actions were made in good faith and without malice, and that they had a reasonable basis for their reports. The bill clarifies that such protections apply regardless of whether any criminal or civil action was initiated following the complaint.

Additionally, the bill introduces the possibility for complainants who successfully dismiss a SLAPP claim to recover not only their litigation costs and reasonable attorneys' fees but also compensatory and punitive damages. It emphasizes the importance of protecting the rights of individuals to speak out against sexual offenses and discrimination, thereby encouraging more victims to come forward without fear of retaliation. The act is designed to be broadly construed to uphold the rights of free speech and to support the goals of the Law Against Discrimination.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2A:53A-50, 2A:53A-52, 2A:53A-55, 2A:53A-58, 2A:53A-59