Trump Indefinitely Extends Ban On Transgender Recruits, But Leaves Wiggle Room For Those Already Serving
According to one official, Defense Secretary Jim Mattis has been directed to take a number of factors into consideration such as "military effectiveness," budgetary constraints and "unit cohesion," as well as others he deems "relevant."
The Associated Press:
Fate Of Transgender Already In Military Unclear Under Order
President Donald Trump on Friday directed the Pentagon to extend indefinitely a ban on transgender individuals joining the military, but he appeared to leave open the possibility of allowing some already in uniform to remain. Trump gave Defense Secretary Jim Mattis authority to decide the matter of openly transgender individuals already serving, and he said that until the Pentagon chief makes that decision, "no action may be taken against" them. (Burns, 8/26)
The Wall Street Journal:
Trump Signs Memo Aimed At Banning Transgender Military Service Members
The new policy, outlined in a call from senior administration officials late Friday, makes exceptions for those receiving medical care in some cases “to protect the health of the individual who has already begun treatment. ”The policy pertains not only to the Defense Department, but also to the Department of Homeland Security, which oversees the U.S. Coast Guard. (Lubold, 8/25)
St. Louis Public Radio:
‘Time To Start Yelling Again’: For Transgender Veterans In Missouri, Trump's New Ban Is Personal
Friday, President Donald Trump signed an official memo implementing a new policy on "military service for transgender individuals." The memo indicates a reversal of an Obama-era policy implemented in 2016, which allowed active-duty service members who are transgender to serve openly and transition while enlisted. (Hanson, 8/26)
