Incorrect answer:

YES and NO, because the republication of the allegedly defamatory statements occurred in an official legislative report, it falls within the "sphere of legitimate legislative activity" and the legislators cannot be found liable for defamation. But the legislative staff may be found liable for defamation because legislative immunity only protects legislators is INCORRECT.

In most cases, including this one, a legislative staff member who takes action on behalf of a legislator or group of legislators is entitled to legislative immunity if the legislator or legislators would be entitled to legislative immunity for taking the same action.

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