BOSTON (WWLP) – 22News was there Monday when Governor Charlie Baker signed a bill authorizing the toughest “Stolen Valor” law in the nation.
Massachusetts is cracking down on people who falsely claim military status for financial gain. Governor Charlie Baker signed “Stolen Valor” legislation into law Monday, making it a crime to impersonate a service member or veteran for money or military benefits.
The bill was filed by Westfield Democrat John Velis who served in Afghanistan with the U.S. Army Reserves. He told 22News some people have been caught wearing a fake military uniform or medals for financial gain from a free meal from a restaurant, all the way to a veteran’s home loan. The penalty for the crime is up to a year in jail, a $1,000 fine or both.
Louis Brault Jr., a veteran, told 22News he’s disgusted that anyone would wrongfully take advantage of these benefits, “I feel like the people who earn the right should be able to use the right without being infringed on by these other people that just like to live in the land of make believe and never had to pay a sacrifice.”
The “Stolen Valor” legislation is one of five veterans-related bills that the Governor signed into law Monday.
