NYT: House Votes to Allow Repeal of Ban on Gays in Military

[ruggerson]

WASHINGTON — The House voted Thursday to let the Defense Department repeal the ban on gay and bisexual people from serving openly in the military, a major step toward dismantling the 1993 law widely known as “don’t ask, don’t tell.”

The provision would allow military commanders to repeal the ban. The repeal would permit gay men and lesbians to serve openly in the military for the first time.

The provision was adopted as an amendment to the annual Pentagon policy bill, which the House is expected to vote on Friday. The repeal would be allowed 60 days after a Pentagon report is completed on the ramifications of allowing openly gay service members, and military leaders certify that it would not be disruptive. The report is due by Dec. 1.

The House vote was 234 to 194, with 229 Democrats and 5 Republicans in favor, after an emotionally charged debate. Opposed were 168 Republicans and 26 Democrats.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/05/28/us/politics/28tell.html?hp

[Unvanguard]

1. A good thing, but not good enough. A step forward, but not far enough. n/t

[pinto]

2. Nice one - two punch to DADT today. We'll see how it unfolds, but good moves.

:thumbsup:

:thumbsup:

[JohnnyLib2]

3. 'Tis a new day.....

Saw this news yesterday, but am struck with how very good it looks and sounds this morning. I'm plenty old enough to remember the hard-won building blocks of the changes in the 60s. Let's hope that upcoming generations can look back on this year, this time as having brought a great change. :thumbsup:

[dickthegrouch]

4. Those 26 dems need replacing /nt

[joeybee12]

5. But is this the worthless compromise they voted on...simply allowing the military the OPTION

to repeal????

[krispos42]

6. I called Congressman Oberstar just now to thank him for his yes vote n/t

[mitchtv]

7. My repuke rep Mary Bono Mack voted against

I had expected more. I hope that vote finishes her in Palm Springs