States Follow Feds' Lead In False Claims Enforcement

State attorneys general and private whistleblowers are implementing tactics the federal government used to deal with False Claims Act enforcement. Thirty-six states and the District of Columbia have enacted false claims laws similar to the federal FCA that have already been tested in federal court cases.

State and Local Government Procurement Partner Keith Wiener said that state-level enforcement will increase in the coming years as attorneys general and the private relators bar grow more experienced.

"It's a big stick for governments to utilize in connection with their contracting and procurement, so I think you'll see a continued expansion and growth in states' enforcement of these acts," Mr. Wiener said.

READ: States Follow Feds' Lead In False Claims Enforcement (subscription may be required)