The implementation of the $2 trillion-plus Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) and other COVID-19 stimulus legislation has set the stage for increased investigations and enforcement actions. Initiated under the False Claims Act and other statutes, these efforts are designed to combat fraud against the government.

This webinar provided an overview of the latest developments in fraud investigations and enforcement actions related to COVID-19 relief spending and highlight the steps that government contractors and other recipients of federal funding can take to reduce their potential exposure to liability. Attorneys from Perkins Coie discussed:

• The U.S. Department of Justice’s (DOJ) priorities for using the False Claims Act to address false or fraudulent claims related to COVID-19 spending.
• Legal issues and theories relevant to False Claims Act cases implicated by CARES Act programs, including the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP).
• Risk mitigation strategies and considerations specific to government contractors, including mandatory disclosure obligations.
• DOJ criminal and civil enforcement areas arising out of the pandemic, including procurement fraud.
• Investigative and oversight roles of the Pandemic Response Accountability Committee, the Special Inspector General for Pandemic Recovery, Congress, and agency offices of inspectors general.