In New York state, a determined fight to make stolen valor a felony

I do understand the need for freedom of speech. It's fakers who take advantage of generous people who appreciate the military that tick me off. As we read in another posting, there are many businesses offering a veteran discount in appreciation. It's an abuse of their generosity to claim service for a discount unearned.
The biggest abuse that crosses over my line is the use of a photo-shopped picture of a real KIA for the perpetuation of a faker's lie. The disrespect to a hero is intolerable to me.
I believe that the phrase "with intent to obtain money, property, or other tangible benefit" is key. That is not exercising freedom of speech. It's fraud. That is illegal.