Construction Industry Briefing: Avoiding DBE Compliance Investigations and Sanctions

Investigations of waste, fraud and abuse on government contracts in the construction industry have increased significantly, particularly in the disadvantaged business enterprise (DBE) sector. Prime contractors in Illinois and nationwide are under constant scrutiny by governmental investigative agencies for DBE compliance. DBE cases currently represent nearly 30% of active procurement and grant fraud investigations. To avoid costly governmental investigations and harsh penalties for noncompliance, it is imperative for prime contractors and subcontractors to comply with the DBE regulations that govern their participation in U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) funded contracts.

This informative and interactive program will focus on current trends, best practices and effective compliance communication strategies.  Please join Seyfarth Shaw partners Don Featherstun, Mark Johnson and Anita Ponder, noted government contracts and construction legal practitioners, and Philippe Weiss, the managing director of Seyfarth Shaw at Work, the compliance services and training subsidiary of Seyfarth Shaw, along with Natalie Pedraza, the Corporate Compliance Officer for James McHugh Construction Co., for a candid discussion on the strategic actions prime contractors and subcontractors should take to avoid DBE compliance investigations that may lead to possible fines, debarment, suspension, and prosecution.

Our speakers will address key industry issues, including: 

• Emerging Risks – Government Contracts, DBE Compliance & Beyond
• Contractors Beware!  False Claims, Disputes and Investigations
• Hidden Compliance Potholes in the Construction Industry
• Practical DBE Monitoring Policies That Actually Work
• Effective Internal Compliance Communication Strategies

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