Bill would pay whistleblowers who expose COVID loan fraud

What does this do?

The "Put America on Commission Act of 2026" creates a whistleblower reward program through a new Office of Whistleblower Awards at the SBA. Whistleblowers who report original fraud tips about PPP or EIDL loans can receive 10% of recovered funds from U.S. wrongdoers, or 15% from foreign wrongdoers, if the tip leads to a conviction or settlement.

Who does it affect?

This affects potential whistleblowers with inside knowledge of COVID-era loan fraud, businesses or individuals who received pandemic loans and may face investigation, and the SBA and its Inspector General, who must build and operate the program.

Why does it matter?

The program creates new financial incentives and legal processes for uncovering pandemic loan fraud, along with new obligations for the SBA and potential liability for those found to have committed fraud. It also expands government enforcement authority and adds reporting requirements to Congress.

What does it cost, and who pays?

The program is funded by a new civil penalty equal to 30% of the fraudulent loan amount, charged to those convicted or who settle fraud cases, with rewards paid from a new Treasury fund within one year of collection.

Where does it stand?