National Security
. . . "The report suggests that that service members will be eligible for gender transition surgery once DOD regulation is changed.
“ 'Several issues relating to repeal of the ban have proven to be contentious, according to officials familiar with the review but not authorized to speak publicly about it,” notes USA Today. “One sticking point has been how long transgender service members would have to serve before being eligible for medical treatment to transition to the other gender.”
"A DOD regulation prohibits transgender individuals from openly serving in the military.
"However, Carter has the power to change that policy without congressional approval because it is a regulation, not a law.
"Soon after assuming his current post as secretary of defense nearly a year ago, Ash Carter, indicated that he was open to allowing transgender individuals to serve in the military as long as they can do what is required of them." . . .