The Wyoming False Claims Act establishes civil penalties for individuals who make false claims against state employees and officials. It defines key terms such as "claim," "false claims law investigation," and "knowing," and outlines the actions that can lead to liability, including knowingly presenting false claims or failing to disclose fraudulent claims. The act stipulates that violators may be liable for three times the damages incurred by the state, along with civil penalties ranging from $5,500 to $11,000 for each false claim. It also provides exceptions for certain claims, such as those related to workers' compensation and Medicaid services.
Additionally, the act includes provisions for protecting whistleblowers from retaliation, allowing them to seek relief if they face discrimination for reporting violations. It establishes a statute of limitations for bringing civil actions under the act, requiring that such actions be initiated within three to six years of the violation. The act creates a dedicated account for proceeds from false claims actions, with funds allocated to support investigations and prosecutions. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.