H4018

Protecting assault survivors

Introduced·4/10/25
Introduced Text

Massachusetts H4018 protects victims of sexual assault, harassment, or discrimination from liability in slander or libel cases.

Massachusetts H4018, known as "An Act protecting assault survivors," amends Chapter 231 of the General Laws by adding Section 91C. This new section shields individuals from being held liable in damages for any communication made without malice regarding an incident of sexual assault, harassment, or discrimination. A prevailing defendant in such cases is entitled to reasonable attorney’s fees, costs, and treble damages for harm caused by the defamation action.

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

D
1
0
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

Calendar

Jun 17, 2025

1:00 PM

Joint Committee on The Judiciary Hearing

History

Mar 26

House

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

Oct 20, 2025

Joint

Hearing scheduled for 06/17/2025 from 01:00 PM-05:00 PM in A-2

Oct 20, 2025

House

Reported by committee to Clerk’s Office for processing, will accompany a study order