Opposing transgender military ban harms military readiness

US Senate Bill 435: Discriminatory Policy Harming Military Readiness This proposed legislation, Senate Bill 435, aims to prohibit transgender individuals from serving openly in the U.S. military and restrict their access to gender-affirming healthcare. The bill would bar those diagnosed with gender dysphoria from enlisting or serving, essentially reinstating policies similar to the previous transgender military ban. Additionally, it would prevent current service members from obtaining gender transition procedures and require them to adhere strictly to the gender assigned at birth, regardless of their gender identity or expression. While the proponents claim this is necessary to uphold military readiness, numerous studies have shown that allowing transgender troops to serve openly has minimal impact on unit cohesion or operational effectiveness. In fact, many U.S. allies permit open transgender service with no detriment to force readiness. This policy perpetuates discrimination and prevents the military from recruiting and retaining talented personnel solely based on gender identity. I urge you to oppose this discriminatory measure that undermines military effectiveness by limiting the pool of qualified recruits. Our armed forces should evaluate service members based on their ability to accomplish the mission, not intrinsic personal characteristics. All Americans who meet standards should have the opportunity to honorably serve their country without facing unjust barriers. Please uphold our military's core values of treating all personnel with dignity and respect.