HI SB117

Individuals who make protected communications about sexual assault, sexual harassment, or sexual discrimination they personally experienced cannot be held liable for defamation unless the communication was made with malice

Protected communications include reports of sexual misconduct offenses under Hawaii criminal law (chapter 707, part V), sex discrimination in employment (section 378-2), sex discrimination in housing (section 515-3), and retaliation for reporting such conduct

Defendants who prevail in defamation lawsuits involving protected communications are entitled to recover reasonable attorneys' fees and costs from the plaintiff

Amends Chapter 663 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes by adding a new section on defamation limitations

Effective date: April 23, 2057