CA AB933

Adds Section 47.1 to California Civil Code establishing that communications made without malice regarding incidents of sexual assault, harassment, or discrimination are privileged under existing defamation law.

Entitles prevailing defendants in defamation actions brought against them for making privileged communications under this section to recover reasonable attorney's fees, costs, treble damages for harm caused by the defamation action, and punitive damages available under Section 3294.

Applies only to individuals who have or had a reasonable basis to file a complaint of sexual assault, harassment, or discrimination, whether or not the complaint was actually filed.

Defines "communication" as factual information related to sexual assault, sexual harassment, workplace harassment or discrimination, housing discrimination, education-related sexual harassment or discrimination, or cyber sexual bullying incidents experienced by the individual making the communication.

Approved by Governor October 10, 2023 and filed with Secretary of State October 10, 2023.