MS HB1707

Creates the Mississippi False Claims Act, prohibiting knowingly submitting false or fraudulent claims for payment to state agencies, including presenting false claims, making false records, conspiring to defraud, or concealing obligations to pay the state

Establishes penalties of triple damages plus civil fines of $5,000 to $10,000 per violation, along with attorney's fees and litigation costs; damages may be reduced to double if violators self-report within 30 days

Authorizes private citizens ("qui tam plaintiffs") to file lawsuits on behalf of the state for claims exceeding $10,000, with rewards of 15-30% of recovered proceeds depending on the state's involvement in prosecution

Protects whistleblowing employees from employer retaliation, with remedies including reinstatement, double back pay, compensatory and punitive damages, plus attorney's fees

Sets a statute of limitations of 3 years from discovery of material facts or 10 years from commission of the violation, whichever comes first, with an effective date of July 1, 2026