ID H0518

Establishes the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit in the Attorney General's office with exclusive authority over Medicaid fraud investigations and prosecutions, independent from the Department of Health and Welfare.

Expands the unit's authority to investigate violations of federal health care programs when substantially related to Idaho's Medicaid state plan, with approval from the relevant federal inspector general.

Adds authority for the unit to review complaints of abuse, neglect, and misappropriation of patients' private funds in health care facilities and board and care facilities serving Medicaid recipients.

Increases criminal penalties for provider fraud from a misdemeanor to a felony with imprisonment up to 15 years and fines up to $15,000, plus mandatory restitution for financial losses.

Grants investigators employed by the Attorney General the same authority as state peace officers, including power to obtain, serve, and execute arrest and search warrants; effective July 1, 2024.