NCJ Number
153260
Date Published
1988
Length
216 pages
Annotation
Testimony pertains to the Major Fraud Act (H.R. 3911) and the Government Fraud Law Enforcement Act of 1987 (S. 1958).
Abstract
H.R. 3911 is a bill to amend Title 18, United States Code, to provide increased penalties for certain major frauds against the United States. S. 1958 establishes regional government fraud law enforcement units for effective investigation and prosecution of fraud against the government. H.R. 3911, which was passed unanimously by the House would establish a new Federal procurement fraud offense for major contracts. S. 1958 would establish a regional enforcement program for government fraud. Congressional representatives who testify generally support the need for new legislation to counter fraud and abuse in the Federal procurement process. A spokesman for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce testifies that H.R. 3911 would establish excessive penalties that are not related to the severity of the underlying crime or the penalties imposed for other serious crimes. Further, he argues that proof of specific intent to defraud the Federal Government should be required for conviction under the bill. Testimony is also presented by other businesspersons and a representative of the Internal Revenue Service. Written statements of the witnesses are included.