AZ House Passes Blackman’s ‘Stolen Valor’ Bill

The Arizona House unanimously passed House Bill 2030, the “Master Sergeant Orlando Dona Valor Act,” which strengthens penalties against individuals falsely claiming military service or honors for personal gain. The bill, introduced by Representative Walt Blackman, a U.S. Army combat veteran, aims to protect public trust and uphold the dignity of military service.

Under HB2030, impersonating a veteran to obtain employment, government contracts, or benefits such as healthcare, education, or disability compensation would be classified as a Class 4 felony. The bill also targets false military claims to secure votes, campaign contributions, or political advantages, addressing concerns about fraudulent political representation.

Despite HB2030 passing the House, the Senate has yet to schedule a vote, with only two weeks left for committees to hear bills this session. During an X-Space discussion on Friday night, Blackman revealed an alternative strategy, explaining that the bill’s language may be inserted as a striker amendment to Senator Bolick’s existing bill already in the House.

“This is also known as a vehicle bill,” Blackman explained, noting that this tactic would send the bill directly to the Senate floor for a third read. He assured listeners he has the votes needed for passage, signaling confidence that HB2030 will clear the Senate through this alternate route.

“I was keeping this under my shirt,” said Blackman, who continued to divulge the plan anyway to the X-Space of almost 300 people.

Blackman also said that Governor Katie Hobbs is ready to sign the bill.

A press conference is scheduled for the Stolen Valor Bill at noon on March 20, 2025, at the Rose Garden at the State Legislature.

The Globe previously wrote about HB2030 here.

This is a continuing story.