Arizona House Passes Unanimous HB2030 to Combat Stolen Valor

The Arizona House of Representatives has unanimously passed House Bill 2030, the Master Sergeant Orlando Dona Valor Act, with a 58-0 vote. The bill, championed by State Representative Walt Blackman, aims to strengthen penalties for individuals who fraudulently claim military service or honors to deceive others or gain an unfair advantage.

“Those who have worn the uniform have earned the right to be called veterans,” Representative Blackman said. “They fought, bled, and sacrificed for this country. It is appalling that anyone would falsely claim that honor to manipulate others or to steal benefits meant for real heroes. This bill ensures that stolen valor is not just condemned—it is punished.”

The bill, named in honor of Master Sergeant Orlando Dona, a soldier known for his integrity and sacrifice, is a powerful step towards protecting the integrity of veterans and ensuring that their sacrifices are not exploited. Dona’s legacy serves as a model of honor and commitment, and this legislation is designed to safeguard that legacy by providing stronger legal repercussions for those who impersonate veterans.

HB2030 outlines clear penalties for impersonating a veteran:

• A Class 1 misdemeanor for general impersonation of a veteran.
• A Class 5 felony for obtaining fraudulent benefits between $5,000 and $9,999.
• A Class 4 felony for fraud involving amounts over $10,000 or for impersonating a veteran in a political campaign.
• Automatic removal from office for any elected official convicted of stolen valor.

“Stolen valor is a grave offense,” Blackman continued. “This bill stands as a guardrail against fraud and as a tribute to warriors like Master Sergeant Dona, who lived by a code of sacrifice, integrity, and duty. Their legacies should never be tarnished by con artists and liars.”

The bill has now moved to the Senate Judiciary Committee, where it will be reviewed by Senator Wendy Rogers, a former U.S. Air Force pilot and strong advocate for veterans. Blackman expressed confidence in Rogers’ leadership and her commitment to veterans, stating, “I trust she will give this bill the thoughtful consideration it deserves and help ensure that stolen valor is met with real consequences.”

Arizona is home to nearly half a million veterans, many of whom have served in conflicts spanning World War II to the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Thousands of Arizona’s sons and daughters have paid the ultimate price defending the country, with many more returning home with the scars of battle. HB2030 serves to ensure their sacrifices will not be exploited by fraudsters seeking unearned recognition or financial gain.

“The Master Sergeant Orlando Dona Valor Act is about honor, integrity, and respect for the men and women who truly earned the title of veteran,” Blackman added. “Arizona will not tolerate stolen valor.”

HB2030 is a step towards preserving the public trust and ensuring that those who have served with honor are respected. It demonstrates a firm commitment to standing up for veterans and holding those who seek to manipulate their sacrifice accountable.