HB 839 Summary

• Establishes the "Missouri False Claims and Fraud Prevention Act" creating civil liability for persons who knowingly present false claims, make false records, or conceal obligations to the state

• Imposes civil penalties of $5,000-$10,000 (adjusted for inflation) plus three times the amount of damages; reduced to two times damages if violator self-reports within 30 days and cooperates fully

• Authorizes private citizens to bring civil actions on behalf of the state (qui tam actions) with court and attorney general approval, allowing whistleblowers to recover 15-30% of proceeds depending on attorney general involvement

• Grants the attorney general authority to issue civil investigative demands for documents, written interrogatories, and oral testimony during investigations before filing suit

• Provides whistleblower protections prohibiting employers from discriminating against employees, contractors, or agents who report violations, with remedies including reinstatement, double back pay, and attorney fees