STATE CAPITOL, PHOENIX – The Arizona House of Representatives has unanimously passed House Bill 2030, the Master Sergeant Orlando Dona Valor Act, with a 58-0 vote. Sponsored by State Representative Walt Blackman, a decorated U.S. Army combat veteran who courageously served in both Iraq and Afghanistan, this legislation strengthens penalties for those who fraudulently claim military service or honors to deceive or gain an unfair advantage.

“Those who have worn the uniform have earned the right to be called veterans,” said Representative Blackman. “They fought, bled, and sacrificed for this country. It is appalling that anyone would falsely claim that honor to manipulate others or to steal benefits meant for real heroes. This bill ensures that stolen valor is not just condemned—it is punished.”

HB2030 is named after Master Sergeant Orlando Dona, a highly respected soldier who exemplified honor and dedication throughout his military career. “This legislation stands as a guardrail against fraud and as a tribute to warriors like Master Sergeant Dona, who lived by a code of sacrifice, integrity, and duty,” said Representative Blackman. “Their legacies should never be tarnished by con artists and liars.”

The Act establishes clear criminal penalties for impersonating a veteran, including:

• Class 1 misdemeanor for general impersonation.
• Class 5 felony for obtaining fraudulent benefits valued between $5,000 and $9,999.
• Class 4 felony for fraud involving $10,000 or more or for impersonating a veteran as part of a political campaign.
• Automatic removal from office for any elected official convicted of stolen valor.

Following the House vote, HB2030 is now before the Senate Judiciary Committee, chaired by Senator Wendy Rogers, a former U.S. Air Force pilot and a staunch advocate for veterans. Representative Blackman expressed gratitude for her leadership, saying, “Senator Rogers understands firsthand the weight of military service. I trust she will give this bill the thoughtful consideration it deserves and help ensure that stolen valor is met with real consequences.”

Representative Blackman also thanked Senate President Warren Petersen for ensuring that the legislation continues moving forward. “President Petersen has been a steadfast supporter of Arizona’s veterans, and his leadership is crucial in making sure this bill reaches the governor’s desk.”

Arizona is home to nearly half a million veterans, many of whom have served in conflicts spanning World War II to the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Thousands of Arizona’s sons and daughters have paid the ultimate price defending our country, with many more returning home with the scars of battle. HB2030 upholds the principle that their sacrifices will not be exploited by fraudsters seeking unearned recognition or financial gain.

“The Master Sergeant Orlando Dona Valor Act is about honor, integrity, and respect for the men and women who truly earned the title of veteran,” Representative Blackman added. “Arizona will not tolerate stolen valor.”

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.