This bill amends New Jersey's anti-SLAPP (Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation) law to extend protections to individuals who report or complain about sexual assault, harassment, or discrimination. Specifically, it allows these individuals to file an order to show cause to dismiss SLAPP claims if they can demonstrate that their actions were made in good faith and without malice. The bill defines the scope of these protections to include reports of sexual offenses and violations of the Law Against Discrimination, as well as incidents of retaliation related to such reports.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for the recovery of compensatory and punitive damages, along with litigation costs and reasonable attorneys' fees for those who successfully dismiss a SLAPP claim. It emphasizes that the act should be broadly construed to protect the rights of free speech and the goals of the Law Against Discrimination. The amendments also clarify that the court may stay proceedings related to SLAPP claims and outlines the conditions under which a cause of action may be dismissed. Overall, the bill aims to encourage victims to come forward without fear of retaliation or legal repercussions.

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