Washington D.C. - Today, Congresswoman Beth Van Duyne reintroduced the Valor Earned Not Stolen Act to honor the service of our nation’s heroes. This bill will increase the maximum penalty for an individual who falsely claims to be the recipient of a military decoration or medal, with the intent to obtain government funding or benefits.

“Our nation continues to be a shining light of freedom around the world due to the sacrifice and selflessness of U.S. service members. The recognition and honors our veterans have earned are hallowed and unfortunately, there have been too many instances of stolen valor resulting in stolen government benefits,” said Congresswoman Beth Van Duyne. “The government must ensure all taxpayer money allocated to our veterans is going to those veterans who have earned it. Their acts of valor helped ensure the safety of our nation, and punishments should be stiff for those who defraud the government and disrespect the service of our men and women in uniform.”

Click HERE to read the full bill text. 

Background:

• Rep. Van Duyne originally introduced the “Valor Earned Not Stolen Act” in 2021 after conversations with constituents who brought to our attention several instances of civilians pretending to have earned military accommodations to obtain government funding.

• The Stolen Valor Act of 2013 made it a federal crime for an individual to fraudulently represent themselves to have earned military decorations or medals with the intent to obtain money, property, or other tangible benefit with a punishment of up to 1 year in prison. 

• The “Valor Earned Not Stolen Act” is a two-pronged bill.

• Increases the maximum penalty for stolen valor from 1 year to 3 years, putting it in line with the penalty for impersonating a public official. 

• Requires a study and report by the Attorney General and the Inspector General of Veterans Affairs to identify any monetary or government benefits received due to a misrepresentation of the receipt of a military decoration or medal. The report would also include recommendations on ways to stop these occurrences. 

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