NEWS RELEASE: ICYMI Senator Moody Introduces STOP Fraud in Medicaid Act Targeting Bad Actors Stealing Taxpayer Funds

WASHINGTON, D.C.-Senator Ashley Moody is targeting fraudsters pocketing ill-gotten taxpayer funds with her new STOP FRAUD in Medicaid Act. The bill gives new authority to state Medicaid Fraud Control Units (MFCU)-operated by state Attorneys General-to investigate and prosecute those fraudulently bilking the system to obtain funds through benefitting claims in addition to fraudulent providers.

"I fought fraud as Florida's Attorney General, recovering millions of dollars for taxpayers, and I am fighting it now as U.S. Senator, finding and closing gaps that exist in our laws. At a time when our nation's debt is skyrocketing, we must increase our efforts to tackle wasteful spending. The STOP FRAUD in Medicaid Act gives states the authority to catch and punish fraud fast-both by fraudulent providers and recipients alike," said Senator Ashley Moody.

BACKGROUND:

• The STOP FRAUD in Medicaid Act follows the uncovering of widespread Medicaid fraud found in Minnesota, where reports claim that at least $9 billion billed across 14 Medicaid services in the state may be fraudulent.
• Currently, state MFCUs focus on prosecuting fraud by Medicaid providers, such as doctors or clinics. Senator Moody's new bill would allow MFCUs to now investigate people who fraudulently receive benefits.
• MFCUs operate in each state to investigate and prosecute providers that intentionally defraud the state's Medicaid program.
• The STOP FRAUD in Medicaid Act is the latest action Senator Moody has taken to combat the theft of taxpayer funds. Senator Moody recently introduced the Punishing Health Care Fraudsters Act, which increases financial and criminal penalties for health care fraud across the board.
• The Florida MFCU under then-Attorney General Moody obtained more than $180 million in settlements and judgments.
• Senator Moody is also cosponsoring the SCAM Act, which would increase safety and protect the integrity of American citizenship by ensuring individuals who join terrorist organizations or are naturalized through fraud or deception can have their citizenship revoked.

Read more about Senator Moody's new bill on Fox News.

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