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NJ A5262
Bill
Status
2/10/2025
Primary Sponsor
Ellen Park
Click for details
AI Summary
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Codifies the New York Times Co. v. Sullivan (1964) Supreme Court standard into New Jersey state law for defamation cases involving public officials
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Public officials suing for defamation related to their official conduct must prove the statement was both false and made with "actual malice" to recover damages
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Defines "actual malice" as knowledge that the statement was false or reckless disregard of whether it was false
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Establishes that proof of truthfulness is an absolute defense against defamation claims by public officials
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Defines "public official" to include those elected to office, appointed by the Governor (with or without Senate consent), or appointed by elected officials or governing bodies with specific consent requirements
Legislative Description
Codifies United States Supreme Court ruling that in defamation suit, public official must prove defendant had actual malice: knowledge that defendant's statement was false or reckless disregard of whether it was false.
Oversight, Reform and Federal Relations
Last Action
Reported and Referred to Assembly Oversight, Reform and Federal Relations Committee
5/8/2025