# DOJ Revises False Claims Act Enforcement

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has updated its Justice Manual to strengthen enforcement of the False Claims Act by clarifying standards related to sub-regulatory guidance and the dismissal of qui tam actions. These revisions aim to ensure fair notice to contractors and businesses, focus DOJ resources on meritorious cases, and reduce the burden of meritless claims on federal contractors. This update impacts organizations engaged in federal contracting by emphasizing transparent enforcement and potentially altering the risk landscape for False Claims Act litigation.

- **Why this matters:** Federal contractors should reassess compliance and risk management strategies in light of clarified enforcement standards and increased DOJ focus on meritorious False Claims Act cases.
- The revisions promote efficient use of government resources by encouraging dismissal of frivolous qui tam actions, potentially reducing litigation costs for contractors.
- Procurement professionals should consider these changes when evaluating contract risk and legal exposure related to False Claims Act provisions.
- Businesses may benefit from enhanced clarity on enforcement expectations, supporting more informed contract negotiations and compliance programs.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Professional Services
**Topics:** Regulatory Compliance
**Published:** September 18, 2026

### Government Entities
- Department of Justice (DOJ)
- Civil Division
- Office of the Associate Attorney General

### Key Quotes
> These revisions will help ensure the Department uses its enforcement authority fairly and effectivelyholding fraudsters accountable for violations of binding legal or contractual obligations while seeking dismissal of meritless qui tam actions that waste taxpayer resources and impose unjustified burdens on businesses.
> — Paul Perkins, Associate Deputy Attorney General

> Evaluating qui tam cases for potential dismissal ensures our enforcement efforts remain aligned with those interests and promotes the efficient use of government resources.
> — Brett A. Shumate, Assistant Attorney General

> The Department of Justice should enforce the law, not make law through enforcement.
> — Stanley E. Woodward, Jr., Associate Attorney General

### Sources
- [ Office of Public Affairs |  DOJ Revises Justice Manual to Strengthen False Claims Act Enforcement | United States Department of Justice](https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/doj-revises-justice-manual-strengthen-false-claims-act-enforcement) - DOJ