False Claims Act settlements would funnel money to crime victim services through 2029

What does this do?

HR 909 adds False Claims Act settlements and penalties as a new funding source for the Crime Victims Fund, a federal account that supports domestic violence shelters, rape crisis centers, and victim assistance programs. The change would be temporary, lasting from enactment through the end of fiscal year 2029. Two portions of any settlement are excluded: the share paid to whistleblowers and any amount the government uses to recover its own losses from the fraud.

Who does it affect?

Organizations that receive Crime Victims Fund grants, including local victim assistance programs, domestic violence shelters, and sexual assault service providers, would have access to additional funding. Companies and individuals who settle False Claims Act cases with the federal government would also be affected, as more of their settlement dollars would flow to this specific fund rather than the general federal treasury.

Why does it matter?

Directing False Claims Act penalties to the Crime Victims Fund could increase or stabilize the money available to programs serving crime victims. If additional funding allows more programs to continue operating or expand, ordinary crime victims who rely on those services could be affected.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Fund currently paid by federal criminal fines
• False Claims Act penalties added as new source
• Whistleblower shares and fraud losses excluded