RI S2603

Creates an affirmative defense to defamation lawsuits for individuals who communicate about incidents of sexual assault, harassment, or discrimination they experienced, provided the communication was made without malice or gross negligence

Covers communications about sexual assault, sexual harassment, workplace harassment/discrimination, housing discrimination, racial discrimination, cyber sexual bullying, and sexual harassment in higher education institutions

Prevailing defendants who successfully use this affirmative defense are entitled to reasonable attorneys' fees, litigation costs, and treble damages for any harm caused by the defamation lawsuit

Protection applies only to individuals who have or had a reasonable basis to file a complaint of sexual assault, harassment, or discrimination, regardless of whether a formal complaint was actually filed

Takes effect immediately upon passage