Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill says the state is strengthening efforts to combat Medicaid fraud while also rolling out new protections for student-athletes navigating the growing Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) marketplace.
During a recent interview, Murrill highlighted major developments in both areas, calling them key priorities for her office.
Medicaid Fraud Unit Continues to Grow
Louisiana’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit is largely funded through federal dollars and investigates fraud involving the state’s Medicaid program. Murrill said the office has made expanding the unit a priority as Medicaid spending continues to increase.
Since she took office, the unit has made 95 arrests, secured 105 convictions, and obtained $73 million in court-ordered restitution. Much of the recovered money returns to the Medicaid program, while other funds help support future investigations.
The Attorney General’s office also plans to expand the unit over the next several years. Louisiana currently spends roughly $23 billion annually on Medicaid, creating opportunities for additional investigators and resources.
Technology Helps Detect Fraud
Investigations often begin with public tips, referrals from the Louisiana Department of Health, or data analysis that identifies unusual billing patterns.
Murrill said her office is investing in more advanced analytics and artificial intelligence tools to uncover suspicious activity faster. Investigators then determine whether billing records match the medical services that were actually provided.
Officials focus on proving intentional fraud rather than simple billing mistakes.
Protecting Vulnerable Patients
Beyond recovering taxpayer dollars, investigators also work to protect vulnerable residents.
Several recent cases included charges of cruelty to the infirm after investigators uncovered neglect involving elderly patients and disabled children. Murrill said those cases demonstrate that Medicaid fraud investigations often expose serious abuse in addition to financial crimes.
New NIL Portal Aims to Protect Student-Athletes
The Attorney General’s office also launched Louisiana’s new athlete agent registration portal following the passage of Senate Bill 39.
The system requires agents, including attorneys acting as agents, to register before representing student-athletes. The initiative also includes financial education designed to help young athletes recognize unfair contracts and avoid exploitation.
Murrill said the goal is simple: protect student-athletes while ensuring legitimate agents can continue serving clients under clear, transparent rules.