Stolen Valor Legislation Expected to Advance Monday, Honoring Arizona’s Veterans

The Arizona Stolen Valor Act is set to move forward in the state legislature after a productive meeting between State Representative Walt Blackman, Senator Shawnna LM Bolick, and Senate President Warren Petersen on Wednesday. This important legislation aims to protect the honor of Arizona’s veterans by cracking down on individuals who falsely claim military service or honors for personal gain.

“We appreciate President Petersen’s willingness to move this bill forward,” said Representative Blackman and Senator Bolick in a joint statement. “His engagement reflects the respect our state holds for those who’ve served in uniform.”

The bill has received strong bipartisan support as it moves through the legislature. Senator Bolick, whose grandfathers both served in the U.S. military, shared her personal connection to the cause. “I carry their memory with me every day,” said Senator Bolick. “This legislation protects the sanctity of the uniform—and that of every Arizonan who has served with integrity.”

Representative Blackman, a U.S. Army veteran, emphasized the broad support for the measure. “This effort goes beyond party lines,” Blackman said. “It’s about doing right by our veterans. I’m grateful to colleagues on both sides who recognize that and are helping us get this done.”

The bill is expected to be discussed in the Committee of the Whole on Monday. Representative Blackman plans to introduce an update to the legislation, making sure it reflects the concerns raised during the legislative process while keeping the goal clear and making sure the bill moves forward smoothly.

“Arizona’s veterans deserve our respect and protection from those who would steal the honor they’ve earned,” said Representative Blackman and Senator Bolick. “We’re committed to getting this bill across the finish line.”

The Stolen Valor Act is a step toward protecting Arizona’s nearly half a million veterans, many of whom have served in conflicts from World War II to the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. The legislation will help ensure that fraudsters who impersonate veterans and falsely claim military honors are held accountable.