MI HB6496

Removes language referencing the specific citation range (1939 PA 280, MCL 400.1 to 400.119b) from provisions regarding false claims under the Social Welfare Act while maintaining the substance of fraud prohibitions.

Replaces the single felony penalty (up to 4 years imprisonment or $50,000 fine) with a tiered penalty structure based on claim amount and prior convictions, ranging from misdemeanor to 20-year felony.

Establishes misdemeanor penalties for false claims under $1,000 (up to 1 year imprisonment or $2,000 fine, or 3 times the claim amount, whichever is greater).

Creates escalating felony penalties: $1,000-$20,000 claims (up to 5 years); $20,000-$50,000 claims (up to 10 years); $50,000-$100,000 claims (up to 15 years); and $100,000+ claims (up to 20 years), with fines up to 3 times the claim amount.

Allows aggregation of false claims submitted as part of a scheme or course of conduct and requires prosecutors to list prior convictions on charging documents when seeking enhanced sentences based on prior conviction history.

Takes effect 90 days after enactment.