OK SB645

Modifies civil penalty amounts under the Oklahoma Medicaid False Claims Act to range from $5,500.00 to $11,000.00 per violation, aligned with Federal False Claims Act penalties adjusted for inflation, plus three times actual damages to the state.

Allows courts to reduce penalties to at least two times damages if the violator furnished state investigators with information within 30 days of obtaining it, fully cooperated with investigations, and had no knowledge of existing criminal or civil proceedings.

Clarifies dismissal requirements by requiring courts to dismiss actions unless opposed by the state when substantially similar allegations were previously disclosed in criminal, civil, or administrative proceedings, unless brought by the Attorney General or by an original source of information.

Defines "original source" as individuals who either voluntarily disclosed information to the state before public disclosure, or possessed independent knowledge that materially adds to publicly disclosed allegations before filing suit.

Establishes whistleblower protections entitling employees, contractors, or agents to reinstatement with seniority, two times back pay with interest, litigation costs, and reasonable attorney fees if discriminated against for reporting violations; actions must be filed within three years of retaliation.

Effective November 1, 2017.