OFFICIALS LEGISLATION INTEREST GROUPS PUBLIC STATEMENTS COMMITTEES VETOES

Federal Program Integrity and Fraud Prevention Act of 2026

Floor Speech

Date: June 8, 2026
Location: Washington, DC

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Mr. SELF. Mr. Speaker, I rise in favor of H.R. 6916, the Federal Program Integrity and Fraud Prevention Act of 2025.

The American people expect their hard-earned tax dollars to be used responsibly. They should never have to worry that individuals convicted of defrauding the Federal Government can turn around and receive additional Federal contracts, grants, or loans.

Unfortunately, we have seen too many examples of individuals exploiting Federal programs for personal gain. One repeat fraudster submitted at least 22 fraudulent pandemic loan applications and additional fraudulent unemployment benefit applications, resulting in more than $250,000 in taxpayer losses. That is only one case.

It is common sense to expect that someone convicted of defrauding the government should not return and apply for more money. This bill closes that loophole.

H.R. 6916 requires individuals convicted of specific Federal fraud offenses involving Federal programs to be placed on the System for Award Management Exclusion list for 3 years. In simple terms: If someone is convicted of stealing from, lying to, or defrauding the Federal Government, they will not be eligible to receive more Federal dollars.

This bill does not create new crimes. It does not expand Federal spending. It simply ensures that individuals convicted of serious fraud involving Federal programs are temporarily barred from receiving additional taxpayer funds.

At a time when Americans are demanding greater accountability from their government, Congress should send a clear message: Taxpayer dollars are not an entitlement in the face of fraud.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the Office of Inspector General and the professionals who worked with my team throughout the development of this legislation. Their work investigating fraud and protecting taxpayer dollars is indispensable.

Mr. Speaker, I also thank Representative Randall for her partnership with this legislation, and I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 6916.

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