veteran
Arizona Lawmaker Hopes To Protect Veterans From Fraud With Stolen Valor Bill

January 15, 2025

By Daniel Stefanski |

As the Arizona Legislature revs into another session, one Republican member is looking to protect the state’s military veterans.

Last week, State Representative Walt Blackman introduced HB 2030 to “strengthen penalties for impersonating a veteran for personal gain.” According to Blackman’s press release, this legislation would “combat fraudulent claims of military service and protect the integrity of veteran status within Arizona,” making this proposal “the most comprehensive state-level response to stolen valor to date.”

In a statement that accompanied his release, Blackman said, “We cannot allow the honorable service and sacrifice of our military men and women to be undermined by deceitful actors. This legislation sends a clear message that Arizona will not tolerate stolen valor in any form. By holding individuals accountable for misrepresenting their military status for personal, political, or financial gain, we uphold the integrity of our veterans’ contributions and the trust of our citizens.”

Per Representative Blackman’s press release, the bill would “create strong deterrents against impersonating a veteran, targeting fraudulent activities such as:

  • Claiming military service or awards to obtain employment, government contracts, or veterans benefits.
  • Using false veteran status to gain votes, campaign contributions, or political advantages.
  • Falsifying or altering military documents, combat-related badges or awards.

Penalties range from a Class 4 felony to a Class 2 felony for offenses involving high-value benefits. The bill also mandates the removal of public officials convicted under the law.”

The release also shared that the bill would “build on the federal Stolen Valor Act of 2013 by addressing gaps in federal law and expand protections at the state level, [using] Arizona’s authority under the 10th Amendment to focus on fraudulent conduct affecting state programs, elections, and institutions.”

Representative Blackman is a decorated United States Army veteran, serving twenty-one years in the military. He earned the Bronze Star Medal and the Meritorious Service Medal for his service to the nation. Blackman is the Chairman of the House Committee on Government.

‘Veterans Issues’ was one of the priorities listed on Blackman’s campaign website. He wrote, “As a veteran myself, I am committed to addressing the unique challenges veterans face in Arizona and proving them with the necessary support and resources.”

Daniel Stefanski is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.

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