If the ban falls ...Associated Press / December 1, 2010
Some specific recommendations by the Defense Department if Congress repeals “don’t ask, don’t tell’’:
■ No new standards of conduct are needed. The Pentagon report found that issues of sexual conduct and fraternization can be dealt with using existing rules and regulations, including the Uniform Code of Military Justice.
■ No separate bathing or living facilities should be provided for gays. While some troops suggested it, the report recommended against it because doing so “would be a logistical nightmare, expensive and impossible to administer.’’
■ Expansion of some spousal benefits. Existing marriage laws prohibit many but not all military benefits to same-sex partners. For example, gay troops should be able to direct that their partner receive benefits related to life insurance, saving plans, and hospital visitation rights, the report found.
■ Equal opportunity to re-enlist. The report says gay troops kicked out of the service under “don’t ask, don’t tell’’ should be allowed to reapply under the same criteria as others seeking re-entry into the armed forces.
■
No special protections for sexual orientation. The report does not recommend that sexual orientation be placed alongside race, color, religion, sex, and national origin as a class eligible for various diversity programs and for resolving complaints.
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