H.R.1156 - Pandemic Unemployment Fraud Enforcement Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 1156, the Pandemic Unemployment Fraud Enforcement Act, aims to amend the CARES Act by extending the statute of limitations for prosecuting fraud related to certain unemployment programs. This extension applies to Pandemic Unemployment Assistance, Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation, and Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation. The bill also rescinds $5 million from unobligated balances made available by section 2118(a) of title II of division A of Public Law 116-136, as added by section 9032 of Public Law 117-2.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill is to provide more time for the government to pursue cases of unemployment fraud related to pandemic relief programs. This could lead to increased prosecution of fraudulent claims and potentially recover funds that were improperly disbursed. The rescission of $5 million will reduce the amount of funds available for other programs.
Potential Benefits
- Increased ability to prosecute fraudulent unemployment claims.
- Potential recovery of fraudulently obtained funds.
- Sends a message that fraudulent activities will be pursued, even after a longer period.
- Could deter future fraudulent activities related to unemployment benefits.
- Reinforces the integrity of the unemployment system.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- The rescission of $5 million could negatively impact programs that rely on those funds.
- Increased legal action could strain the resources of the justice system.
- Individuals may face prosecution years after the alleged fraud, potentially making it difficult to gather evidence.
- The extended statute of limitations could be seen as overly punitive.
- Potential for errors in prosecution due to the passage of time.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution, particularly Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to collect taxes and provide for the general welfare. Extending the statute of limitations for fraud related to unemployment programs falls under Congress's power to ensure proper use of funds. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).