Currently, South Carolina does not have a state false claims act, although a bill was introduced and is pending in the South Carolina state legislature. However, South Carolina whistleblowers can still be protected under the federal False Claims Act.
South Carolina whistleblowers who report fraud against the government may be eligible for an award under the False Claims Act. The most common types of fraud against the government are Healthcare Fraud (Medicare & Medicaid Fraud) and Government Contract Fraud.
The False Claims Act allows whistleblower to receive up to 25% of any recovery when the government intervenes in the case. Claims are called “qui tam lawsuits” and are filed under seal – meaning in secret, to protect the whistleblower.
In 2018, the Department of Justice recovered $2.5 billion in healthcare fraud under the False Claims Act. Most of this amount was from fraud committed against the Medicare and Medicaid programs.
If you are considering becoming a whistleblower, contact Miller Law Group for a free consultation, or call 919-348-4361.
