What act defines liability for submitting false claims knowingly or unknowingly?

The Federal False Claims Act (FCA) is the legislation that specifically defines liability for submitting false claims, whether knowingly or unknowingly. The FCA was enacted to combat fraud against the federal government, particularly in areas like healthcare, where improper billing practices can lead to significant financial losses. The act allows for the government to pursue claims against individuals or entities that knowingly submit false claims for payment or approval, as well as those who inadvertently submit improper claims due to negligence.

Under the FCA, a whistleblower, or "qui tam" relator, can file a suit on behalf of the government if they have evidence that false claims have been submitted. This aspect of the FCA not only incentivizes individuals to report fraud but also reinforces the accountability of healthcare providers and institutions in their billing practices.

In contrast, the other acts listed do not primarily focus on the submission of false claims. The Whistleblower Protection Act protects employees from retaliatory actions when they report misconduct, while the Health Insurance Portability Act (HIPAA) addresses patient privacy and the transfer of health information. The Patient Protection Act primarily involves healthcare reforms to ensure access to medical care. Thus, the FCA is uniquely positioned to address issues related to false claims and the associated liabilities.