Continuing her efforts to reduce waste and fraud in the Medicaid system, state Rep. Jehan Gordon-Booth (D-Peoria) recently helped advance legislation to increase penalties for people who commit Medicaid fraud. The proposal was recently passed by the General Assembly and will next head to the governor’s desk for further consideration.

“When people commit fraud in the Medicaid system, they are stealing the money from hardworking taxpayers,” Gordon-Booth said. “Lawmakers must do everything in their power to prevent this from happening. This legislation creates penalties that will make people think twice before trying to take advantage of our system.”

Senate Bill 1330 broadens civil penalties for Medicaid providers and others who knowingly receive benefits when they are ineligible. Under current law, civil penalties are limited to three times the amount of the benefits received and 5% annually in interest. This proposal creates penalties that can range for $10,000 to $50,000 for each false claim of goods or services provided by Medicaid.

“This measure takes important steps toward stopping people from abusing the Medicaid system,” Gordon-Booth said. “In addition to punishing dishonest Medicaid providers, this proposal will protect Illinoisans who are playing by the rules. I urge the governor to sign this bill into law quickly.”

For more information, please contact Gordon-Booth’s full-time constituent service office at (309) 681-1992 or by e-mailing repjgordon@gmail.com.