FCPA
Government & Politics abbreviation · US Law
| Stands for | Foreign Corrupt Practices Act |
|---|---|
| Categories | Government & Politics |
FCPA stands for Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, a US law abbreviation.
Makes it illegal for US companies, companies listed on US exchanges and their agents to bribe foreign officials to obtain or keep business, and requires listed companies to keep accurate books and adequate internal accounting controls. The Justice Department and SEC enforce it.
Example: The company paid $300 million to resolve FCPA charges over payments to state officials.
Usage notes
Enacted in 1977 after investigations found hundreds of US companies had made questionable foreign payments. Penalties can include large fines and prison terms for individuals. A February 2025 executive order paused new enforcement pending revised Justice Department guidelines, which were issued later that year with a narrower focus.
Related abbreviations
More US law abbreviations
- EPA – Equal Pay Act of 1963
- ERISA – Employee Retirement Income Security Act
- ESA – Endangered Species Act
- ESEA – Elementary and Secondary Education Act
- ESSA – Every Student Succeeds Act
- FATCA – Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act
- FCRA – Fair Credit Reporting Act
- FDCA – Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act
- FDCPA – Fair Debt Collection Practices Act
- FECA – Federal Election Campaign Act
- Fed. Reg. – Federal Register
- FERPA – Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act