MN HF8

Establishes the Minnesota False Claims Act (Chapter 15C) to address fraudulent claims made to the state for money or property, creating civil liability for persons who knowingly present false or fraudulent claims, make false records, conspire to defraud, or mishandle state property or funds.

Imposes civil penalties of $5,000 to $10,000 per false claim plus three times the amount of actual damages sustained by the state, with reduced penalties available if violations are promptly disclosed and investigated.

Authorizes the Attorney General to investigate violations and bring civil actions, while also allowing private citizens (original sources of information) to bring whistleblower lawsuits under seal, with their complaints served on the Attorney General.

Protects whistleblower employees from employer retaliation and provides recovery of 15-30% of any settlement or judgment to private plaintiffs, along with reasonable attorney fees and costs when prevailing.

Establishes a three to ten-year statute of limitations for actions, requires proof by preponderance of evidence, allows discovery stays to protect ongoing investigations, and limits private plaintiff participation in actions where the Attorney General intervenes.