NASHVILLE, Tenn. (CLARKSVILLENOW) – TN House members unanimously passed a measure to strengthen identity protections for military veterans this week.
House Bill 2130, also known as the Tennessee Stolen Valor Act, is designed to safeguard the identities of Tennessee veterans who serve the state and nation by cracking down on instances of theft and fraud involving those who attempt to imitate them.
The measure creates a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 11 months and 29 days in jail, as well as a fine of up to $2,500, for anyone who impersonates a veteran or individuals who fraudulently represent their service with the intent of obtaining money, property, services, or any other tangible benefits.
The legislation comes after a recent case in Northeast Tennessee involving a con artist who lied about his military service to steal from veterans.