Stolen Valor Act signed into law

Contributed Article/Courtesy Arizona House of Representatives

PHOENIX – State Representative Walt Blackman celebrated the signing of SB1424, the Master Sergeant Orlando Dona Stolen Valor Act, which makes it a crime to knowingly falsify military service or awards to obtain employment, access benefits, or claim recognition reserved for those who served honorably.

“You don’t get to wear the uniform if you didn’t earn it, and you sure don’t get to profit off of it,” said Representative Blackman, who sponsored the original legislation and championed its passage through the legislative process. “The Stolen Valor Act will give prosecutors the tools they need to go after phonies who disgrace the uniform for personal gain. Veterans earn their honors through blood, sweat, and sacrifice. Pretending to serve just to get a benefit is not only dishonest — it’s offensive to every real service member.”

The bill was named after Master Sergeant Orlando Dona, a decorated Army veteran whose honorable service inspired the legislation. “Sergeant Dona stood for integrity and honor—exactly what this law protects,” said Representative Blackman.

He also credited Arizona’s veteran community for pushing the bill forward. “This bill passed because veterans raised their voices. Their support, stories, and pressure made the difference. They’ve been the backbone of this effort from day one, and I’m proud to have had their trust.”

Representative Blackman thanked State Senator Shawnna Bolick for her key role in moving the bill through the Senate and ensuring its ultimate passage.

“Protecting veterans from fraud and exploitation should never be a partisan issue,” said Representative Blackman. “The strong support behind this bill shows there’s still room to do what’s right.”

Representative Walt Blackman is a Republican member of the Arizona House of Representatives serving Legislative District 7 and is Chairman of the House Government Committee. Follow him on X at @BlackmanForAZ.