SB183 Alabama 2013 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Arthur OrrSenator

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2013

Title

Alabama False Claims Act, treble damages for persons filing false claims with the state, role of Attorney General, and individuals in qui tam cases provided for, retaliatory actions by employers prohibited, limitation of actions

Summary

SB183 would create the Alabama False Claims Act to punish false claims against the state with treble damages and penalties, establish whistleblower (qui tam) procedures, protect employees who report fraud, and set time limits for these actions.

What This Bill Does

It authorizes the state to collect three times the damages plus civil penalties and costs for certain false or fraudulent claims against state programs, with attorney's fees allowed. It allows private individuals to file civil actions on behalf of the state (qui tam) and outlines how the Attorney General can proceed or allow the relator to continue, including reward shares for successful actions. It bars employer retaliation against employees who disclose information or assist in investigations, and provides remedies like reinstatement, back pay with interest, and other damages. It also defines key terms and sets time limits for bringing actions.

Who It Affects

• The State of Alabama and its taxpayers, who could recover treble damages, civil penalties, and costs when fraud against the state is proven.
• Employees and employers, where employees are protected from retaliation for reporting fraud or assisting in investigations, and private whistleblowers (qui tam plaintiffs) may pursue actions with potential financial rewards and specified rules for participation.

Key Provisions

• Creates Alabama False Claims Act with treble damages (three times the state's damages), civil penalties, and recovery of costs including attorney's fees for various false-claim acts against the state.
• Establishes qui tam (whistleblower) provisions where private individuals may sue on behalf of the state; outlines share of proceeds (at least 15% and up to 25% depending on contribution) and conditions under which the state may intervene or proceed.
• Implements protections against employer retaliation toward employees who disclose information to government or law enforcement, including reinstatement, double back pay, interest, and litigation costs; sets a three-year action limit for retaliation claims.
• Defines key terms (claim, knowing, material, obligation), provides that the act is not exclusive of other remedies, and sets action time limitations and procedural rules for how cases proceed and are sealed.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 25, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Crimes and Offenses