Long and Proud Historical Background The Western world has a long and proud history of challenging established political structures by reporting on misappropriation of government funds by private individuals. This desire stems from civic duty that when someone steals from the government of a free society, they in essence steal from all of us.

Quitam, which is the short version of the Latin phrase “quitam pro domino rege quam pro seipse,” means “he who sues for the king as for himself” has allowed people to take action on behalf of their government to prevent fraud and graft. Although used since 13 th century England, quitam took on new meaning in the new American republic for theft from this government of, by, and for the people affected all taxpayers and citizens.

It was not until the Civil War that quitam whistleblowers became truly protected. Disgusted by military contractors who lined their pockets by providing soldiers and sailors with shoddy equipment, Congress enacted the False Claims Act of 1863. This enticed people to alert the government when their company was stealing by rewarding them with a percentage of the settlement. This single act helped the government prevent the flow of faulty war materials and changed the tide of war.

Then, in the midst of another war for national survival, Congress amended the act in 1943 to adjust the role of government complicity in the case and reduced the award of 50% to 25% if the government did not take the case and 10% if it did.

Surprisingly there was not public outcry, and it was not until 1986 that the act was then revised again. Congress increased the whistleblower’s reward to 30%, and eliminated many of the roadblocks in the way of those who reported fraud. Furthermore, the whistleblower can remain a party to the action if the government takes over the case. In 1989 the now famous Whistleblower Protection Act further clarified the protections, rights, and roles whistleblowers can play in protecting their government and fellow citizens.

Since 1986 quitam actions have increased exponentially. It is speculated that these brave people have saved more than $1 billion dollars for the federal government. Everyone who pays taxes owes these brave individuals eternal gratitude.