H1974

Relative to privileged communications in defamation actions

Introduced·2/27/25
Introduced Text

Massachusetts H1974 amends defamation laws to protect privileged communications regarding sexual assault, harassment, or discrimination.

Massachusetts H1974 amends the state's defamation laws to protect privileged communications regarding incidents of sexual assault, harassment, or discrimination. A communication made without malice about such incidents is deemed privileged. A prevailing defendant in a defamation action brought for making a privileged communication is entitled to reasonable attorney's fees, costs, treble damages, and any other relief permitted by law. This protection applies to individuals who have or had a reasonable basis to file a complaint of sexual assault, harassment, or discrimination.

Included in complete analysis

  • Overview
  • Core Provisions
  • Implementation
  • Impact
  • Legal Framework
  • Critical Issues

See what it does, who it affects, and the critical issues in plain language. Free, 30 seconds.

Where it stands

Current
In committee
Next
Committee decision

Sponsors

DD
2
0
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

Calendar

Nov 4, 2025

1:00 PM

Joint Committee on The Judiciary Hearing

Nov 4, 2025

1:00 PM

Joint Committee on The Judiciary Hearing

History

Mar 26

House

Accompanied a study order, see H5281 (under House Rule 27)

Nov 4, 2025

Joint

Hearing rescheduled to 11/04/2025 from 01:00 PM-02:30 PM in A-1 and Virtual Hearing updated to New End Time

Nov 4, 2025

Joint

Hearing rescheduled to 11/04/2025 from 01:00 PM-05:00 PM in A-1 and Virtual Hearing updated to New End Time