An Act relative to the definition of fraud in public construction bid laws
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill seeks to clarify the definition of ‘fraud’ as it applies to public construction bid laws in Massachusetts. Currently, the definition may be too narrow, potentially hindering the state’s ability to prosecute serious bid rigging and other fraudulent activities. The bill aims to broaden the scope of what constitutes fraud, ensuring that a wider range of deceptive practices are addressed and penalized effectively.
Key provisions
- Expands the definition of ‘fraud’ to include activities beyond simply submitting false bids.
- Clarifies that collusion between bidders to manipulate bids constitutes fraud.
- Addresses the intentional withholding of information that could affect a bid.
- Broadens the scope to include actions designed to unfairly influence the bidding process.
- Defines ‘bid rigging’ more explicitly.
- Includes provisions for enhanced penalties for fraudulent bidding practices.
- Addresses the concept of ‘knowing’ participation in fraudulent activities.
Who is affected
- Construction companies bidding on public projects
- Government agencies overseeing public construction projects
- Contractors
- Bidders
- Massachusetts residents
Notable changes
- The bill broadens the existing definition of fraud to encompass a wider range of deceptive practices.
Bill text
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Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
20 on record
Primary sponsor
Cosponsors
Adrianne Pusateri Ramos
Antonio F. D. Cabral
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