President Biden's Pardon of Former Service Members
President Biden pardons former U.S. service members dishonorably discharged for violating a now-repealed military ban on consensual gay sex. The pardon allows them to apply for proof of erasure of conviction, upgrade discharges, and recover lost pay and benefits.
Key Points
- Biden's action grants pardon to service members convicted under a now-repealed military ban on consensual gay sex
- Pardon allows for proof of conviction erasure, discharge upgrade, and recovery of lost pay and benefits
- Move comes during Pride Month and before a fundraiser with LGBT donors in New York
Pros
- Righting a historic wrong
- Restoring dignity and decency to LGBTQI+ service members
- Reflecting values of an exceptional nation
Cons
- Convicted service members of rape not covered under the pardon