Akin Attorneys Author Article for Dow Jones Risk Journal on DOJ’s First‑Ever ‘Illegal DEI’ FCA Settlement

Dow Jones Risk Journal has published an article titled, “Justice Department’s First‑Ever ‘Illegal DEI’ False Claims Settlement,” authored by Akin False Claims Act/Qui Tam Defense partners Colin Huntley and Sara McLean, government contracts partner Marta Thompson and senior counsel Laura Hill. 

The authors analyze the U.S. Justice Department’s $17 million False Claims Act settlement with IBM, the first resolution under the Civil Rights Fraud Initiative, focusing on the government’s legal theories, recent executive actions targeting DEI programs and the unresolved questions surrounding falsity, materiality and scienter in potential litigation. 

“Recipients of federal funds should proactively assess their past and present DEI practices...They should document good faith decisions about practices they choose to keep, and they should be prepared for FCA DEI investigations and/or litigation.” 

For the full piece, please click here.