Supporting DADT Repeal Means Supporting Senate Debate on Defense Bill

by Admin

Repeal support made meaningful by upcoming vote on NDAA motion to proceed

Washington - Today the Human Rights Campaign welcomed the news from Sen. Scott Brown, R-Mass., that he "accept[s] the findings of the report and support[s] repeal based on the Secretary's recommendations." HRC emphasized that support by any Senator for repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" is of little value without a commitment to vote to bring up the National Defense Authorization Act - the bill to which DADT repeal is attached - to a vote on the Senate floor. Majority Leader Harry Reid is expected to make a motion to proceed to the bill as soon as early next week. HRC President Joe Solmonese issued the following statement:

"Support for repealing the ban on open service by gays and lesbians continues to strengthen in the U.S. Senate and supporters will soon be put to the test. The true measure of whether or not one supports an end to this policy will come as the Senate considers if they will begin debate on the defense bill. Make no mistake, a vote against the motion to proceed is a vote against DADT repeal."

The Human Rights Campaign is America's largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.

Contact Us

To make a general inquiry, please visit our contact page. Members of the media can reach our press office at: (202) 572-8968 or email press@hrc.org.