Posted: | December 20, 2016 09:36 AM |
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From: | Representative Rick Saccone |
To: | All House members |
Subject: | Former HB2050- Stolen Valor Act |
In the near future, I plan to introduce a bill that would make it a crime to fraudulently present oneself as a soldier or a veteran of any branch of the armed forces, or to be the recipient of a service medal or other military decoration when it is done with the intention of obtaining money, property, of other benefits. This is a reintroduction of HB 2050 from last session, which passed the House unanimously 197-0. Criminalized behavior would range from lying to receive veteran or health care benefits to fraudulently obtaining preference in a government contract or a job reserved for a veteran. While the bill does not criminalize simply lying about one’s military service and accomplishments, I would nevertheless emphasize that this legislation is not simply about unfairly obtaining an economic benefit. This kind of fraud is despicable and, in particular, it is terribly disrespectful to our nation’s veterans. Please join me in recognizing and protecting the valor and integrity of our military awards, along with the men and women who have earned them. |
Introduced as HB168