Rep. Nardolillo Demands Justice for LGBTQ Veterans Supports bill to reinstate benefits for those discharged under “don’t ask, don’t tell”

2/6/2018

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Providence, RI - State Representative Robert Nardolillo III (R District 28 – Coventry) will be cosponsoring a bill to right a terrible wrong committed against certain veterans in Rhode Island.

Prior to the repeal of the U.S. military’s policy of “don’t ask, don’t tell” people serving in the armed forces who did not identify as heterosexual received a dishonorable discharged. In addition losing their military career, these people were denied any veterans benefits at the federal, state, and local level. House bill 7204 would partially change that by allowing veterans who were dishonorably discharged solely because of their sexual orientation to collect state and municipal veterans benefits.

“Over 13,000 troops were dishonorably discharged under “don’t ask, don’t tell” including some who reside right here in Rhode Island. These men and women served this country honorably and as far as I’m concerned they deserve the same respect and benefits we offer to any other veteran,” said Rep.
Nardolillo.

In 2016, fewer than 1000 veterans nationwide discharged under “don’t ask, don’t tell” had sought to correct their status.

Contact Information
Ian O'Connor, House Minority Office
State House Room 106
Providence, RI 02903
(401) 222-2259

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