If enacted, this bill would introduce a new statute in Arizona law that criminalizes the act of impersonating a veteran of the United States Armed Forces. The bill defines the offense as knowingly pretending to be a veteran and engaging in specific deceptive behaviors intended to induce others to rely on the impersonator's false authority. The behaviors outlined include falsely claiming military service, misrepresenting awards or decorations, and fabricating military credentials. The bill classifies impersonating a veteran as a class 1 misdemeanor, with escalated penalties for impersonation that results in financial gain, ranging from a class 6 felony for benefits valued between $500 and $5,000, to a class 4 felony for benefits of $10,000 or more.

Additionally, the bill establishes defenses against prosecution, requiring prosecuting agencies to obtain certified separation documents to support claims of impersonation. It mandates the removal of any elected official convicted of this offense within ten days of sentencing. The bill also clarifies that it does not apply to actors portraying veterans in entertainment or individuals experiencing homelessness soliciting small donations. The legislation would be known as the "Master Sergeant Orlando Dona Valor Act" and would take effect on the general effective date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 13-2414
House Engrossed Version: 13-2414