Pa. Lawmakers Eye More Penalties For Faking Military Records
HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — Pennsylvania state senators are advancing a bill to expand penalties for people who falsely represent their military record for their personal benefit.
Senators voted unanimously Wednesday to make it a third-degree misdemeanor for someone who falsely claims that they were awarded any military decoration or medal. A third-degree misdemeanor is punishable by up to one year in jail.
The bill also would make it a second-degree misdemeanor if that person falsely wears a Congressional Medal of Honor, a Navy Cross, an Air Force Cross, a Silver Star or a Purple Heart. A second-degree misdemeanor is punishable by up to 2 years in jail.
The bill now goes to the House.
Currently, Pennsylvania makes it a summary offense for someone who falsely uses U.S. military uniforms or emblems for personal benefit.
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