§ 1001.301 Conviction relating to obstruction of an investigation or audit.

(a) Circumstance for exclusion. The OIG may exclude an individual or entity that has been convicted, under Federal or State law, in connection with the interference with or obstruction of any investigation or audit related to—

(1) Any offense described in § 1001.101 or § 1001.201; or

(2) The use of funds received, directly or indirectly, from any Federal health care program.

(b) Length of exclusion. (1) An exclusion imposed in accordance with this section will be for a period of three years, unless aggravating or mitigating factors listed in paragraphs (b)(2) and (3) of this section form the basis for lengthening or shortening that period.

(2) Any of the following factors may be considered to be aggravating and a basis for lengthening the period of exclusion—