Bill aimed at preventing ‘stolen valor’ heading to Senate floor

A proposed Senate bill that would broaden definitions of so-called “stolen valor” cases is ready for the Senate floor.

All 25 members of the Senate Rules Committee voted unanimously to endorse the legislation (SB 402). The bill is sponsored by Sen. Tom Wright, a Port Orange Republican, and would outlaw anyone who misleadingly uses military uniforms, medals or insignias.

The proposed measure consolidates all military branches into one single classification as a “military uniform.”

“The bill ensures that the same branches of armed forces are listed in each provision of the statute,” said a Senate staff background report.

Wright said the instances of abuse by those who do not serve, also known as “stolen valor,” are increasing.

“I have found two situations in my district where men are wearing fatigues and claim to be veterans and they’re not,” Wright said of the men who were trying to raise charitable donations outside of stores on the Space Coast.

“I talked to the store managers in both cases and they threw them off the property.”

Currently, a person could be charged with a third-degree felony if found guilty of committing “stolen valor.”

Ultimately, Wright said serving in the military is a distinguished accomplishment. He said that should not be taken advantage of by anyone who has not served.

“We have to protect the sanctity of the uniform and make sure they are represented correctly,” Wright said.

Wright’s bill is similar to another Senate bill that would specifically target public officials from using stolen valor in their official capacity if elected or while running a campaign.

Sens. Jay Collins, a Tampa Republican, and Don Gaetz, a Pensacola Republican, cosponsored a bill (SB 348) which institutes ethics violations for candidates or elected officials who engage in stolen valor. Violation of that measure, if approved, could include censure by the Florida Board of Ethics, a $25,000 fine and possible removal from office by the Governor. That measure has also received preliminary approval by several Senate committees.