Recover Fraudulent COVID Funds ActThis bill extends the statute of limitations (i.e., time limit for bringing a legal action) to 10 years for criminal and civil violations involving specified COVID-19 pandemic relief programs, such as violations involving fraudulent activity. Under current law, the statute of limitations is generally five years for violations concerning these pandemic-era programs. The Paycheck Protection Program and the Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program currently have 10-year statutes of limitations relating to program fraud.
Impact
By extending the statute of limitations, SB121 seeks to provide law enforcement and governmental agencies with the necessary time to detect, investigate, and prosecute fraudulent activity associated with pandemic aid. This is particularly significant given the widespread allegations of fraud and abuse of relief funds during the pandemic. If passed, the bill would alter current legal procedures, emphasizing the importance of holding accountable those who exploit emergency programs designed to assist citizens and businesses during difficult times.
Summary
SB121, known as the Recover Fraudulent COVID Funds Act, proposes to extend the statute of limitations for violations related to pandemic-era programs to 10 years. Specifically, it aims to address offenses stemming from various programs established during the COVID-19 pandemic, such as the CARES Act and the Paycheck Protection Program. The bill's primary objective is to facilitate the prosecution and enforcement of laws against fraud in connection with funds disbursed through these programs, ensuring that such offenses can be addressed within a suitable timeframe for investigation and legal action.
Contention
There are notable points of contention surrounding the bill. Critics may argue that extending the statute of limitations could lead to prosecutorial overreach, as investigations that may not have immediate evidence could be prolonged, potentially impacting individuals who were previously unaware of their violations. On the other hand, supporters assert that such measures are necessary to safeguard public funds and ensure that fraudsters do not evade justice simply due to time constraints. The debate reflects broader concerns about balancing efficient law enforcement with individuals' rights and protections under the law.
Veteran Entrepreneurship Training Act of 2023 This bill provides statutory authority for the Boots to Business Program, which provides entrepreneurship training to individuals including veterans and active members of the Armed Forces, to be administered by the Small Business Administration.
Drug Testing for Welfare Recipients Act This bill requires the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, and specified public housing programs to subject individuals to substance-abuse screening and to deny benefits for individuals who test positive for a controlled substance.
Private Student Loan Bankruptcy Fairness Act of 2023 This bill modifies the treatment of certain student loans in bankruptcy. Specifically, it allows private student loans to be discharged in bankruptcy regardless of whether a debtor demonstrates undue hardship. Under current law, student loans may be discharged in bankruptcy only if the loans impose an undue hardship on the debtor.