ATTORNEY NEWSLETTER
Governor Jerry Brown and the California Assembly have passed a bill to expand and amend California’s pre-existing False Claims Act to agree more closely with the Federal False Claims Act. Effective on January 1, 2013, this new law broadens the requirements for whistleblower status and compensation, which could increase the incentive for whistleblowers to come forward. For example, now an individual who was complicit in the unlawful claim may come forward and be eligible for a whistleblower reward if he or she provides a significant amount of information. Another change that facilitates whistleblowing is eliminating the requirement that a whistleblower claim must have first been taken to a state officer or agent in order to qualify. The new amendment also includes greater penalties for employment discrimination and more substantial rewards for those who have been discriminated against.
Hopefully, this new bill will inspire potential whistleblowers to come forward with false claims, and discourage unethical employers and agencies from committing illegal acts that directly or indirectly harm state and local governments. Increasing the liability of defendants and the rights of plaintiffs in false claims and qui tam cases will promote and expedite the efficacy of Whistleblower and False Claims in California.
Evans Law Firm, Inc. litigates on behalf of IRS tax whistle-blowers, victims of corporate fraud, qui tam/false claims and tax evasion. If you or someone you know has information concerning a potential IRS tax whistle-blower case, contact Evans Law Firm, Inc. at 415-441-8669 or email info@evanslaw.com.
