Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison, along with Senator Ann Johnson Stewart and Representative Matt Norris, has introduced the Medical Assistance Protection (MAP) Act, H.F. 2354. This bipartisan bill aims to strengthen the state’s efforts in combating Medicaid fraud by expanding the resources and authority of the Attorney General's Office.
The MAP Act proposes several measures to enhance the investigation and prosecution of Medicaid fraud. It seeks to increase the size of Minnesota’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU) from 32 to 41 members, aligning with recommendations from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS OIG). The proposed expansion is in response to Minnesota's growing Medicaid budget, which has risen from $13 billion to nearly $20 billion.
Attorney General Ellison emphasized the importance of this legislation, stating, “Stealing money meant for the health care of poor families is illegal and immoral.” He urged lawmakers to pass the MAP Act swiftly to provide his office with necessary tools for holding wrongdoers accountable.
Representative Matt Norris highlighted the government's duty to protect public funds, especially those intended for low-income healthcare. "With this legislation, the Attorney General and his vigilant staff will be empowered to minimize fraud in Minnesota," he said.
Senator Ann Johnson Stewart expressed her support as well: “Bad actors who steal funds designated to provide healthcare to some of the most vulnerable Minnesotans must be held accountable.”
The MFCU within Attorney General Ellison’s Office investigates Medicaid provider fraud and receives funding primarily through federal grants. Despite its smaller size compared to similar states, Minnesota's MFCU has been effective in securing convictions for provider fraud.
The MAP Act also seeks to enhance subpoena powers for financial records during investigations and aligns penalties for Medical Assistance fraud with other theft laws. Currently classified as attempted theft under state law, Medical Assistance fraud carries a maximum penalty of 2.5 years in prison. The new bill proposes penalties up to 20 years in prison and fines up to $100,000 for thefts exceeding $35,000.
The passage of this bill would further bolster Minnesota’s efforts against Medicaid fraud by providing more robust legal tools and resources.