House of Representatives approves amendment to reverse trans military ban
Over the last three years, 14,000 transgender service members have served openly and successfully. (Alex Wong/Getty Images)
The House of Representatives has today (July 11) approved an amendment to reverse Donald Trump’s transgender military ban.
The motion passed with bipartisan support.
The amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act would put safeguards in place under law that any person who meets gender-neutral occupational standards can serve in the military regardless of race, colour, national origin, religion or sex, including gender identity or sexual orientation.
Mara Keisling, executive director of the National Center for Transgender Equality, said: “This is a crucial moment for our elected officials to bring accountability to a reckless and lawless policy.
Ten Republicans voted with all Democrats in support of the bill. (John Moore/Getty Images)
“This bigoted ban has brought chaos to prospective recruits, active duty service members, and countless families forced to watch their dedication and duty soiled by a self-interested President.
“The military wants and needs qualified transgender people, and we applaud this action by the House to ensure that every person willing and able to serve is allowed to serve. It will now be up to the Conference Committee and the President whether to embrace equal opportunity or discrimination.”
“Over the last three years, 14,000 transgender service members have served openly and successfully,” said amendment sponsor, Representative Jackie Speier.
“All five service chiefs affirmed they do not hamper lethality or cohesion.
“Malice and ignorance cannot stop us giving medical care to those brave enough to serve. We know what transgender service members bring to the fight; let them bring it.”
According to The Hill, the amendment passed 242-187.
Ten Republicans voted with all Democrats in support of the bill.
“Transgender troops have served openly with distinction for years, and they and their fellow service members deserve nothing less than the respect of a grateful nation,” said Sarah McBride, Human Rights Campaign National Press Secretary.
“The Trump-Pence administration’s trans troop ban goes against medical experts, military leadership and budget analysts; it is unsound, unpopular, and unpatriotic.
“We are grateful to Congresswoman Speier and the strong, bipartisan majority of the House who voted for this amendment to ensure all transgender military service members have equal non-discrimination protections.”
