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TCA 39-14-137

Fraudulent qualifying for programs for disadvantaged or minority businesses

VIOLATIONViolation

What does this charge mean?

This law makes it illegal to knowingly use false statements or fraudulent actions to qualify yourself or someone else for government programs that help disadvantaged, small, or minority-owned businesses. The punishment is the same as theft charges—meaning you could face jail time and fines based on how much money or benefit was fraudulently obtained. Additionally, any contract made because of this fraud becomes void, and you must repay all government money you received, which is required on top of any fine.

Penalty Details

ClassificationViolation
Penalty SummaryViolation
(a) No person shall knowingly commit or engage in any false or fraudulent conduct, representation or practice in order to qualify, or assist another to qualify, for participation in any program administered by or through an agency of state or local government intended to specifically encourage and enhance economic development of the following: (1) Disadvantaged businesses, as described by § 4-26-102(6); (2) Small businesses, as described by § 12-3-1102; (3) Minority-owned businesses, as described by § 12-3-1102; or (4) Disadvantaged business concerns and enterprises, as described by or pursuant to § 54-1-124. (b) A violation of subsection (a) is punishable as theft pursuant to § 39-14-105. (c) Any contract entered into as a direct result of a violation of subsection (a) shall be null and void and the court shall order repayment of all governmental funds paid pursuant thereto which may be reasonably construed as constituting net profit or personal enrichment for the guilty party or parties. Repayment of funds pursuant to this subsection (c) shall be in addition to payment of any fine imposed pursuant to subsection (b).
View on official sourceLast verified: Feb 25, 2026

Quick Facts

VIOLATION
TCA Section39-14-137