HB 2629 Summary

• Establishes Arizona False Claims Act creating civil liability for knowingly presenting false claims to state or political subdivision entities, including submitting false records, conspiracy to defraud, short-delivering property, and failing to disclose inadvertent false claims.

• Imposes liability of three times damages plus civil penalties of $5,500 to $11,000 per false claim, reduced to two to three times damages with no penalty if violator discloses falsity within 30 days and fully cooperates with investigation.

• Authorizes Attorney General to prosecute false claims involving state funds and prosecuting authorities to pursue claims involving political subdivision funds, with procedures for intervention and coordination when both are implicated.

• Permits private citizens to file qui tam actions (whistleblower lawsuits) on behalf of state or political subdivisions, with awards to private plaintiffs ranging from 15-50% of proceeds depending on government participation.

• Prohibits employers from retaliating against employees who disclose false claims to government agencies or participate in false claims actions, with remedies including reinstatement, double back pay, and attorney fees for wrongfully discharged employees.