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 individuals to make good faith reports of sexual offenses or violations of the Law Against Discrimination without fear of retaliation through SLAPP suits. The bill defines the scope of these protections, stating that they apply to individuals who report such offenses or incidents of retaliation, regardless of whether any legal action was initiated.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for the recovery of compensatory and punitive damages, as well as litigation costs and 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, thereby encouraging victims to come forward without the fear of intimidation or legal repercussions. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

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