The planned reform of the defamation legislation, currently examined by the Justice Committee of the Italian Senate, includes - in addition to increased fines - an outrageous ban of journalistic practice. Moreover, a recent amendment questions the removal of prison sentences, initially included in the reform. Reporters Without Borders (RSF) calls on the Italian ruling majority to comply with the Council of Europe’s recommendation on combating gag lawsuits and pass a bill without custodial or disproportionate sanctions.