Memorializes Department of Defense to authorize changes on certain military service forms of veterans who are transgender.
Impact
If enacted, AR70 would advocate for a policy change within the DOD, allowing transgender veterans to update their DD Form 214 to align with their legal names and gender identities. This shift aims to facilitate easier access to veterans' employment preference benefits and other essential services such as medical care and funeral benefits. It is estimated that around 140,000 veterans may identify as transgender, spotlighting a significant demographic that would benefit from these proposed changes, easing their journey in obtaining necessary support.
Summary
Assembly Resolution No. 70 (AR70) memorializes the United States Department of Defense (DOD) to authorize changes to the DD Form 214, which is the official certificate of release or discharge from active duty for military personnel. The resolution emphasizes that many military veterans who are transgender face significant challenges obtaining post-service benefits due to discrepancies between their military records and their current names and genders. The DD Form 214, traditionally considered a historical record, currently cannot be altered to reflect gender changes, which can create obstacles for veterans when accessing benefits and services they are entitled to.
Contention
The resolution identifies the ongoing struggles transgender veterans face, including the potential for discrimination when their military documentation does not reflect their current identity. The inability to change traditional military forms can result in veterans either feeling uncomfortable disclosing their transgender status or being denied benefits outright. The resolution aims to foster equality by ensuring that all veterans, regardless of gender identity, can access the same benefits without discrimination or unnecessary barriers.
Urging The Governor To Take Action To Protect Transgender Members Of The Hawaii National Guard From Discriminatory Federal Policy And Permit Qualified Transgender Service Members To Continue Their Service.
Urging The Governor To Take Action To Protect Transgender Members Of The Hawaii National Guard From Discriminatory Federal Policy And Permit Qualified Transgender Service Members To Continue Their Service.
Urging The Governor To Take Action To Protect Transgender Members Of The Hawaii National Guard From Discriminatory Federal Policy And Permit Qualified Transgender Service Members To Continue Their Service.
Urging The Governor To Take Action To Protect Transgender Members Of The Hawaii National Guard From Discriminatory Federal Policy And Permit Qualified Transgender Service Members To Continue Their Service.
Establishes a lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender veterans coordinator in order to support the unique needs of, advocate for, and celebrate the service of such veterans.