The Oklahoma Senate sends Gov. Mary Fallin a bill increasing the penalties for what it refers to as "stolen valor."
The bill increases the fine tenfold for impersonating a member of the military by wearing decorations or medals. If signed into law, the fine for the misdemeanor offense will jump from $100 to $1,000. Co-author Sen. Brian Bingman said it's about protecting service men and women's integrity.
"Unquestionably, the sacrifices that they've made protecting us — we wouldn't be here today if it wasn't for putting their lives on the line for our freedom," Bingman said.
The Oklahoma Senate passed the bill on a 44–2 vote. The House passed the bill last month 84–9. Its passage by the Senate comes a week after a joint session of the legislature honored the 45th Infantry and the Oklahoma National Guard.
"Anyone who would wear a medal of a decorated veteran or someone who served in the armed forces, use it for their personal gain, is despicable," Bingman said.
The bill doesn’t change even harsher penalties for using a Congressional Medal of Honor or falsifying documents supporting a medal. Those are felony offenses carrying fines of $5,000.
