IN SB0559

Establishes the Medicaid False Claims and Whistleblower Protection Act, imposing civil penalties of $5,500-$11,000 plus up to three times damages for knowingly submitting false or fraudulent claims to the Medicaid program

Creates whistleblower protections allowing private citizens to file qui tam lawsuits on behalf of the state, with recoveries ranging from 15-30% of proceeds depending on state intervention, plus attorney's fees

Requires transportation providers enrolling as Medicaid providers to obtain $50,000 surety bonds for at least three years to cover potential false claims liability

Authorizes state excise police to investigate electronic benefits transfer (EBT) fraud and requires disabling cash assistance access at casinos, liquor stores, firearms dealers, and adult entertainment establishments

Mandates national criminal background checks for high-risk Medicaid provider applicants and makes individuals convicted of Medicaid fraud ineligible for assistance for 1-10 years depending on number of offenses