S.1143

Relative to privileged communications in defamation actions

Introduced·2/27/25
Introduced Text

Massachusetts S1143 amends defamation laws to protect privileged communications about sexual assault, harassment, or discrimination.

Massachusetts S1143 amends Chapter 278 of the General Laws to protect privileged communications about incidents of sexual assault, harassment, or discrimination. It ensures that a civil action cannot be maintained against a person or entity for publishing a fair and true report of official proceedings. This protection extends to communications made without malice regarding incidents of sexual assault, harassment, or discrimination, which are deemed privileged.

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Where it stands

Current
In committee
Next
Committee decision

Sponsors

D
1
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

Jul 22

Senate

Accompanied a new draft, see S3193

Jul 1

Senate

Reporting date extended to Friday July 31, 2026

Mar 30

Senate

Reporting date extended to Tuesday June 30, 2026