AZ HB2030

Creates new crime of "impersonating a veteran" making it illegal to knowingly pretend to be a veteran of the U.S. armed forces with intent to induce reliance on false authority.

Prohibits false claims about military service including: pretending to be a veteran without serving, falsely claiming military decorations or medals, misrepresenting military training or schools, falsely claiming combat veteran status, and falsifying military discharge characterization.

Establishes graduated penalties: class 1 misdemeanor for basic impersonation; class 6 felony if benefit obtained is $500-$4,999; class 5 felony if $5,000-$9,999; class 4 felony if $10,000+ or if impersonation occurs in furtherance of a political campaign.

Provides complete defense if certified separation documents from the applicable military service support the person's claims and requires prosecutors to obtain certified documents before filing charges.

Exempts actors portraying veterans in entertainment productions and homeless individuals soliciting donations under $50; requires removal from office within 10 calendar days if the convicted person holds state, county, municipal or district elected office.