(a) A person may not knowingly make or cause to be made a false statement or report:
(1) in an application or document provided to the Department; or
(2) to influence Department action affecting financial assistance, whether or not the assistance already has been extended.
(b) A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 5 years or a fine not exceeding $50,000 or both.