President Biden’s December 23 defense bill has sparked debate over its impact on military families and the transgender community. While the bill enforces pay raises for junior enlisted service members and boosts the military budget to $895 billion, it has raised concerns about health care access and inclusivity. The bill’s passage, by a notable legislative vote of 281-140, also reflects deeper policy tensions.
The unanticipated defense bill has been scrutinized by the U.S. Senate- and major politicians including Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts and Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin. Each voted against it following Speaker Mike Johnson’s intent to remove TRICARE services. Executive director of Modern Military Association of America held a similar viewpoint. In a public hearing, Rachel Branaman questioned the bill’s credibility. Branaman argued the bill was a, “direct opposition to claims that Biden’s administration is the most pro LGBTQ+.” Biden’s bill has additionally involved the U.S. Defense Department and resulted in biased hiring policies. With a year-long hiring freeze on military DEI programs, transgender individuals are less likely for career advancement or financial security.
The compromise legislation ultimately arose from ongoing disputes between the Democratic and Republican parties. With weeks of closed door negotiations, Biden’s defense bill has been considered a “fight on timing.” Biden’s defense bill ultimately remains a point of contention- with long-term effects on our nation’s most vulnerable communities.
