HI SB1176

Increases the civil penalty range for false claims to the State from $5,500-$11,000 to $11,463-$22,927 per violation, with treble damages.

Requires Hawaii's false claims penalties to match the 2019 federal False Claims Act penalty amounts to maintain compliance with Social Security Act section 1909 financial incentive requirements.

Establishes automatic annual adjustments to Hawaii's penalty amounts to match federal False Claims Act penalties as adjusted by the U.S. Department of Justice for cost-of-living increases.

Applies the increased penalties retroactively to violations occurring after November 2, 2015, and to assessments made after the bill's effective date.

Takes effect upon approval to help the State maximize recoveries in false claims cases and continue qualifying for enhanced federal reimbursement incentives.