Presidential Pardon for Convicted Veterans

SOURCE www.cnn.com
President Joe Biden is expected to pardon US veterans convicted under a military law that banned gay sex between 1951 and 2013. The pardon won't automatically change their records but will allow them to apply for a certificate of pardon for withheld benefits.

Key Points

  • Pardon applies to veterans convicted under UCMJ Article 125 between 1951 and 2013
  • Separate from Pentagon's review of military records for discharged LGBTQ+ service members
  • Veterans can apply for a certificate of pardon but must go through a process to change discharge status

Pros

  • Provides justice for veterans convicted under outdated military laws
  • Allows impacted veterans to apply for withheld benefits
  • Acknowledges past injustices and discrimination against LGBTQ+ service members

Cons

  • Pardon does not automatically change discharge status
  • Does not apply to convictions of non-consensual acts