MS HB1177

Creates the "Mississippi False Claims Act" to prohibit knowingly presenting false or fraudulent claims for payment to state agencies, including making false records, conspiracy to defraud, and failure to disclose inadvertently submitted false claims.

Establishes civil liability for violators including treble damages (three times actual damages), civil penalties of $5,000 to $10,000 per violation, court costs, and attorney's fees; reduced to double damages with no penalty if person discloses violation within 30 days and meets other conditions.

Authorizes "qui tam" lawsuits by private citizens on behalf of the state when the amount in controversy exceeds $10,000, with qui tam plaintiffs receiving 15-25% of proceeds if the state intervenes or 25-30% if the state does not intervene.

Requires state agencies to diligently investigate suspected violations and grants them primary prosecution authority if they choose to proceed; qui tam plaintiffs may continue as parties subject to court limitations on participation.

Prohibits employers from retaliating against employees who disclose information to government agencies or participate in false claims actions, with violators liable for reinstatement, double back pay with interest, damages, punitive damages, and attorney's fees; effective July 1, 2018.