Relates to the criminal impersonation in the second degree and establishing a stolen valor fee

• Democratic9
• Republican2

◆ The sponsor's argument

Why James Skoufis says this is needed

Exploiting the valor and sacrifice of our armed forces and first respon- ders to obtain money or other personal gain is deplorable. Sadly, such have become all too common. In light of recent events involving an Orange County resident who fraudulently presented herself as a Purple Heart Recipient, the urgency for this legislation is clear. The indict- ment against this individual detailed that she used, possessed, and exhibited a military discharge certificate that had been altered to reflect falsely that she was a Purple Heart recipient, which allowed her to receive illicit disability benefits. Engaging in stolen valor is particularly reprehensible as it detracts from the sacrifices made by genuine heroes who have defended our nation. New York State must ensure there are consequences for these schemes, as they happen at the expense of our armed forces and first responders. This bill establishes the state crime of stolen valor and directs that a stolen valor fee be assessed against those convicted. The proceeds of this fee will be allocated to the veteran's remembrance and cemetery maintenance operation fund. Requiring these perpetrators to pay a stolen valor fee is just and fitting. The fee will contribute to establishing and maintaining a state Veterans Cemetery, honoring those who have served our nation.

This is the sponsor's own case for the bill, quoted from their memorandum. It is not Agora's description of what the bill does.