Freedoms are Protected for LGBT Veterans & Families

Press Release

Today, Representative Tim Walz (D-MN) introduced the bipartisan Protecting the Freedoms and Benefits for All Veterans Act in the U.S. House of Representatives. The Walz legislation would correct an injustice for LGBT veterans and their families to ensure that they receive equal treatment for equal service. Currently LGBT veterans, spouses, and their families, depending on where they reside, can be denied survivor benefits (including but not limited to death pensions, life insurance, educational assistance, and bereavement counseling), spousal benefits, and flag burial honors. According to the Associated Press, veterans and their families are already being denied same-sex benefits in certain states, such as Oklahoma.

"When someone puts their life on the line to protect our freedom at home, they deserve to enjoy the same freedom and earned benefits as anyone else who has done so, no matter who they love or where they reside," Representative Walz said. "This common sense legislation will work to ensure that LGBT veterans and their families are treated equally under the law, no matter what state they live in."

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