F1A38A2E54150F2E87258806006BA689 Hearing Summary

The committee was called to order. A quorum was present. Representative Gray, prime sponsor, presented House Bill 22-1119, concerning civil liability for presenting false claims for payment to the state. Representative Gray explained the effect of the bill and discussed its need.

Phil Weiser, Attorney General representing the Department of Law, testified in support of HB 22-1119. Mr. Weiser responded to questions regarding the amount of fraud that may be captured by the bill, and the scope of the bill in terms of the breadth of the crimes addressed. Mr. Weiser responded to further questions about awarding of attorney fees under the bill.

Jason Dunn, representing the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce, testified on HB 22-1119 from an "amend" position.

Josh Weiss, representing the Colorado Competitive Council, testified on the bill from an "amend" position.

Henry Bangert, representing the Associated General Contractors of Colorado, testified on the bill from an "amend" position.

Loren Furman, representing the Colorado Chamber of Commerce, testified on the bill from an "amend" position.

Mr. Bangert and Mr. Dunn responded to questions regarding the difference between the federal False Claims Act and HB 22-1119. Discussion ensued regarding the definitions of "knowing" and "political subdivision" in the bill, and certain disclosure privileges in the bill. Discussion followed regarding attorney fees awarded under the bill, and the potential impact of litigation on companies under the bill. Discussion turned to the definition of "in-camera" under the bill. Mr. Bangert responded to questions regarding the potential inclusion of "safe harbor" provisions for companies under the bill. Discussion ensued regarding certain criminal procedures in the bill.

Mary Inman, representing Taxpayers Against Fraud, testified in support of HB 22-1119. Ms. Inman responded to questions regarding protections for whistleblowers.

Jan Zavislan, representing the Department of Law, made himself available to respond to questions regarding HB 22-1119. He responded to questions regarding the definition of "political subdivision" in the bill, and the awarding of attorney fees under the bill. Mr. Zavislan responded to further questions about privileges, and investigations conducted under the bill. Mr. Zavislan responded to questions regarding attorney/client privilege.

Representative Weissman laid over HB 22-1119.