The Justice Department announced that settlements and judgments under the False Claims Act topped $2.2 billion in the fiscal year ending in September 2022, making it the second-highest annual number in history. A total of 351 settlements and judgments involving the government and whistleblowers were tracked.

Since amendments made in 1986, the total recovered sum now exceeds $72 billion. Brian M. Boynton, the Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General, emphasized the key role of the False Claims Act in protecting taxpayer dollars from fraud.

The Act enforces triple damages and penalties on those falsely claiming money from the US or failing to repay what they owe. Out of the $2.2 billion that was recovered last fiscal year, over $1.7 billion involved healthcare industries like drug manufacturers and medical service providers.

The recoveries also signify the department’s focus on enforcing cybersecurity requirements in government deals and halting fraud in pandemic aid programs. Whistleblowers, who play a crucial role in uncovering false claims, filed 652 qui tam lawsuits last fiscal year, contributing to settlements and judgments over $1.9 billion.

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Originating Article: Justice.gov | False Claims Act Settlements and Judgments Exceed $2 Billion in Fiscal Year 2022