Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB38

Introduced
3/6/25  

Caption

Providing for liability for false claims, for adoption of congressional intent of the Federal False Claims Act, for damages, costs and civil penalties, for powers of Attorney General, for qui tam actions and for civil investigative demands.

Impact

The bill's implications on state laws are significant, particularly in strengthening the legal framework surrounding fraud prevention. By adopting the core components of the federal statute, Pennsylvania ensures that those who attempt to deceive the state for financial gain face substantial monetary consequences. Furthermore, the provisions concerning qui tam actions allow private citizens to report fraud against the Commonwealth, encouraging civic engagement in preventing fraudulent activities while potentially rewarding whistleblowers.

Summary

Senate Bill 38 aims to enhance the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania's ability to combat false claims and fraud by integrating the principles of the Federal False Claims Act into state law. This legislation proposes strong measures for liability against those that submit false claims for government funds, establishing a framework for damages that includes statutory penalties. The provisions in SB38 empower the Attorney General to investigate and prosecute violations, thus reinforcing the state's commitment to uphold the integrity of its programs that utilize taxpayer dollars.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB38 appears to be positive among advocates for transparency and fiscal responsibility. Supporters argue that this legislation is a necessary tool to deter fraud and misuse of funds intended for public welfare programs. However, there may be concerns among opponents regarding the potential for misuse of the qui tam provisions, which could lead to frivolous lawsuits and burdens placed on legitimate businesses and contractors operating within the state.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the balance between effective fraud prevention and ensuring that the rights of businesses and individuals are protected from unjust actions. Critics may argue that overly punitive measures could dissuade potential contractors from engaging with the Commonwealth due to fear of legal repercussions. The bill's success will rely on its implementation, the guidance provided by the Attorney General, and public support to create a fair environment for reporting fraud without discouraging economic participation.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB1437

Providing for liability for false claims, for adoption of congressional intent of the Federal False Claims Act, for damages, costs and civil penalties, for powers of Attorney General, for qui tam actions and for civil investigative demands.

PA HB1439

In fraud and abuse control, providing for false or fraudulent Medicaid claims and civil enforcement; and establishing the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit Fund.

PA HB461

In penalties, providing for civil action, damages and attorney fees.

PA HB1501

Providing for filtered devices required, for manufacturer liability, for damages and for civil action for enforcement and penalties.

PA SB94

Further providing for definitions; providing for duty of department to report; further providing for civil remedies and penalties, for liquidated damages and for criminal penalties; providing for employer liability; and establishing the Wage Enforcement Fund.

PA HB944

Further providing for definitions; providing for duty of department to report; further providing for civil remedies and penalties, for liquidated damages and for criminal penalties; providing for employer liability; and establishing the Wage Enforcement Fund.

PA SB1186

Further providing for definitions and for minimum wages; providing for gratuities; further providing for enforcement and rules and regulations, for penalties, for civil actions and for preemption; and providing for taxpayer savings and reinvestment.

PA SB996

In actions, proceedings and other matters generally, providing for reporting of deaths; and imposing penalties.

PA SB812

In falsification and intimidation, further providing for the offense of false alarms to agencies of public safety.

PA HB1716

In entities generally, further providing for requirements for names generally and providing for registration of name of domestic nonfiling association; in entity transactions, further providing for nature of transactions and for approval by limited liability company; in foreign associations, further providing for foreign registration statement; in general provisions, further providing for definitions; in corporate powers, duties and safeguards, further providing for certain specifically authorized debt terms; in officers, directors and shareholders, further providing for derivative action; in foreign business corporations, further providing for application of article; in general provisions, further providing for definitions; in corporate powers, duties and safeguards, further providing for certain specifically authorized debt terms; in officers, directors and members, further providing for derivative action; in general partnerships, further providing for contents of partnership agreement; in limited partnerships, further providing for contents of partnership agreement and for derivative action; and, in limited liability companies, further providing for contents of operating agreement and for derivative action.

Similar Bills

PA HB1437

Providing for liability for false claims, for adoption of congressional intent of the Federal False Claims Act, for damages, costs and civil penalties, for powers of Attorney General, for qui tam actions and for civil investigative demands.

PA HB1697

Providing for liability for false claims, for adoption of congressional intent of the Federal False Claims Act, for damages, costs and civil penalties, for powers of Attorney General, for qui tam actions and for civil investigative demands; and establishing the Fraud Prevention and Recovery Account.

PA HB1371

Establishing cause of action for antitrust conduct, for indirect purchaser recovery under State antitrust laws and for premerger notice of health care mergers and transactions; and imposing penalties.

PA SB785

Establishing cause of action for antitrust conduct, for indirect purchaser recovery under State antitrust laws and for premerger notice of health care mergers and transactions; and imposing penalties.

PA HB2012

Providing for cause of action for antitrust conduct, for indirect purchaser recovery under State antitrust laws and for premerger notice of health care mergers and transactions; and imposing penalties.

IL HB2188

ATTY GENERAL-MEDICAID FRAUD

IL SB1613

ATTY GENERAL-MEDICAID FRAUD

DE SB296

An Act To Amend Title 6 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Antitrust.