Senate Committee Passes Anti-Trans Amendments in Defense Bill
Amendments restricting gender-affirming care for military members and their families move forward with bipartisan support.
- The Senate Armed Services Committee approved amendments banning public funding for gender-affirming surgeries and care for minors under TRICARE.
- Independent Senator Joe Manchin's support was crucial in passing these amendments, despite his later uncertainty about the vote.
- The amendments are part of the Heritage Foundation's Project 2025, aimed at implementing ultra-conservative policies.
- LGBTQ+ advocates and organizations have condemned the amendments as harmful and unjustified.
- The bill must still pass the full Senate and be reconciled with the House version before becoming law.