Zawistowski Supports Penalty for “Stolen Valor” Fraud Legislation

HARTFORD — State Rep. Tami Zawistowski today voted for legislation that defines the crime of falsely representing oneself as having a military medal or decoration, or wearing a uniform of one of the armed forces that one is not authorized to wear in order to fraudulently obtain money, property, or other goods or services.

“Pretending to have served in the military is utterly disrespectful to the men and women who have worn a uniform on behalf of our country—people who have made sacrifices in defense of the freedoms we enjoy,” said Zawistowski, who represents Suffield, East Granby and Windsor. “But trying to get something out of it too? That’s repugnant, and if proven, certainly deserves sharp punishment.”

The “Stolen Valor” bill (H.B. 5293) is in response to the U. S. Supreme Court’s ruling in U.S. v. Alvarez which stated that the federal military medal misrepresentation statute was unconstitutional because it violated a person’s First Amendment right to free speech. The plurality opinion stated there is no general First Amendment exception for false statements, but acknowledged there are many laws punishing or criminalizing false statements that cause definite and identifiable harm through fraud.

There are many opportunities meant for legitimate veterans such as those for veteran-owned businesses and service-disabled veterans which should be protected and preserved for those they are intended to help, said Zawistowski, who co-sponsored the bill.

The legislation is supported by the Connecticut Veterans Chamber of Commerce.

“The Supreme Court has ruled that we can’t penalize people who pretend to have military status and honors, but fraud is an altogether different matter—we should we should at least criminalize that type of activity,” she said.

Members of the House approved the legislation in 143-0 vote, sending it to the state senate for action