Task Force denounces House panel vote aimed at stalling DADT repeal

The Task Force denounces the House Armed Services Committee’s passage of an amendment to the defense authorization bill aimed at delaying implementation of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” repeal.

The committee, by a 33-27 vote, adopted an amendment from Rep. Duncan Hunter, R-Calif., requiring all four service chiefs to certify that the change won’t hurt troops’ ability to fight. The repeal law currently requires certification from the president, defense secretary and the Joint Chiefs chairman. Read more here.

Task Force Executive Director Rea Carey says:

It is a disgrace that some lawmakers are wasting time and taxpayers’ hard-earned dollars trying to thwart the implementation of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” repeal. They are out of touch with most Americans, who overwhelmingly believe that qualified, patriotic men and women should be able to serve their country openly and honestly free from discrimination. These delay tactics are an affront to those who are currently serving our country, those who wish to serve, and to our nation’s sense of fair play.

The Task Force is among 85 organizations that signed onto a letter sent to the U.S. House of Representatives yesterday urging members to oppose DADT-related amendments to the National Defense Authorization Act. Get more details and read the letter.

The committee  also approved an amendment by Rep. Vicky Hartzler, R-Mo., seeking to define marriage as a union between a man and a woman for the purpose of military benefits, regulations and policy. The vote was 39-22. The House Armed Services Committee approved the broad defense bill by a 60-1 vote. The measure is expected to be considered by the full House the week of May 23.