Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB2051

Introduced
11/19/25  

Caption

Providing for liability for false claims, for adoption of congressional intent of the Federal False Claims Act, for damages, costs and civil penalties, for powers of Attorney General, for qui tam actions and for civil investigative demands.

Impact

The passage of HB 2051 would have significant implications for state law, specifically in how false claims are handled and prosecuted. By adopting the Federal False Claims Act's standards, the bill could enhance the state’s ability to combat fraud in various sectors, including healthcare, government contracts, and more. This alignment is expected to provide clearer guidelines for businesses and individuals regarding liability, potentially reducing the incidences of fraudulent claims while ensuring that the state can effectively pursue those who engage in such activities.

Summary

House Bill 2051 introduces provisions for liability concerning false claims, adopting congressional intent stemming from the Federal False Claims Act. The bill outlines the responsibilities and powers of the Attorney General in enforcing these provisions, which include damages, costs associated with false claims, and civil penalties. This aims to strengthen the legal framework around false claims in the state, aligning local laws with federal expectations on accountability and fraud prevention.

Contention

While HB 2051 is largely seen as a step towards strengthening anti-fraud measures, it may encounter opposition or concerns regarding the extent of liability and the enforcement powers granted to the Attorney General. Critics may argue that the provisions could lead to overreach in regulatory actions, raising questions about the balance between rigorous enforcement of fraud laws and protection against frivolous lawsuits. Additionally, stakeholders in sectors affected by these laws may call for clarifications to protect themselves from unintended consequences when interacting with the legal frameworks established by this bill.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB38

Providing for liability for false claims, for adoption of congressional intent of the Federal False Claims Act, for damages, costs and civil penalties, for powers of Attorney General, for qui tam actions and for civil investigative demands.

PA HB1697

Providing for liability for false claims, for adoption of congressional intent of the Federal False Claims Act, for damages, costs and civil penalties, for powers of Attorney General, for qui tam actions and for civil investigative demands; and establishing the Fraud Prevention and Recovery Account.

PA HB4327

Civil procedure: civil actions; false claims act; enact. Creates new act.

PA HB3123

Civil procedure; cause of action for intentional distribution of false news; Attorney General to file action on behalf of the citizens of Oklahoma; effective date.

PA HB718

Further providing for definitions; providing for duty of department to report and for investigations; further providing for civil remedies and penalties, for liquidated damages and for criminal penalties; providing for employer liability; and establishing the Wage Enforcement Fund.

PA HB2966

Creates a civil cause of action allowing claimants to seek damages from the state for wrongful conviction

PA HB1931

Providing for a judicial forum for claims for damages stemming from climate disasters, extreme weather attributable to climate change and harms resulting from long-term changes to the climate system.

PA SB175

In falsification and intimidation, further providing for the offense of false alarms to agencies of public safety.

PA HB163

Further prohibiting certain entities from acquiring an interest in agricultural land; providing for investigation by Attorney General and for responsibilities of purchaser and Attorney General; further providing for forfeiture of lands; providing for real estate auction; and further providing for definitions.

PA SB386

Further prohibiting certain entities from acquiring an interest in agricultural land; providing for investigation by Attorney General and for responsibilities of purchaser and Attorney General; further providing for forfeiture of lands; providing for real estate auction; and further providing for definitions.

Similar Bills

PA HB703

A Joint Resolution proposing integrated amendments to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, providing for the election and qualifications of the Secretary of the Commonwealth.

PA SB1028

In Office of Attorney General, further providing for legal advice and civil matters and for criminal prosecutions.

KY HJR64

A JOINT RESOLUTION limiting the Governor and Lieutenant Governor to participate in litigation only pertaining to interests particular to his or her office.

PA HB968

In fishing licenses, providing for active duty military fishing reciprocity and for disabled veteran annual fishing license reciprocity; and, in hunting and furtaking licenses, providing for active duty military hunting reciprocity and for disabled veteran annual hunting license reciprocity.

PA HB2115

Providing for health care antitrust; and imposing civil penalties.

PA SB38

Providing for liability for false claims, for adoption of congressional intent of the Federal False Claims Act, for damages, costs and civil penalties, for powers of Attorney General, for qui tam actions and for civil investigative demands.

PA SB785

Establishing cause of action for antitrust conduct, for indirect purchaser recovery under State antitrust laws and for premerger notice of health care mergers and transactions; and imposing penalties.

PA HB1371

Establishing cause of action for antitrust conduct, for indirect purchaser recovery under State antitrust laws and for premerger notice of health care mergers and transactions; and imposing penalties.