Ensuring Military Readiness Act of 2023

Ensuring Military Readiness Act of 2023

This bill requires the Department of Defense (DOD) to prescribe regulations regarding military service by individuals who identify as transgender.

Under the regulations, individuals who identify as transgender with a history or diagnosis of gender dysphoria must be disqualified from military service, with some exceptions. (The bill defines gender dysphoria as a marked incongruence between one's experienced or expressed gender and biological sex.)

The regulations must provide exceptions for such individuals if they have been

• stable for 36 consecutive months in their biological sex prior to accession, or
• diagnosed with gender dysphoria after entering into service if they do not undergo transition procedures and remain deployable within applicable retention standards for their biological sex.

Under the regulations, members of the Armed Forces who have been diagnosed with gender dysphoria may continue to serve in their biological sex (regardless of any changes previously made to their gender marker in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System, or DEERS) and receive medically necessary treatment for gender dysphoria. However, such treatment may not include gender transition procedures.

Individuals who identify as transgender and who seek or have undergone gender transition are disqualified from military service.

Additionally, individuals who identify as transgender, do not have a history or diagnosis of gender dysphoria, and are otherwise qualified for service may serve in the Armed Forces in their biological sex.

DOD must prescribe regulations updating DEERS to require the gender markers for members of the Armed Forces to match their biological sex, regardless of any previous changes.

Bill 118 hr 1112, also known as the Ensuring Military Readiness Act of 2023, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. The main goal of this bill is to ensure that the US military is adequately prepared and equipped to handle any potential threats or challenges that may arise.

One key provision of the bill is the allocation of additional funding for military training and exercises. This funding would be used to enhance the readiness and effectiveness of US military personnel, ensuring that they are well-prepared for any mission they may be called upon to undertake.

Another important aspect of the bill is the modernization of military equipment and technology. This includes upgrading existing weapons systems, investing in new technologies, and improving the overall capabilities of the US military. By ensuring that our military has access to the latest and most advanced equipment, the bill aims to maintain our military superiority and deter potential adversaries. Additionally, the bill includes provisions for improving the quality of life for military personnel and their families. This includes increased support for mental health services, better access to healthcare, and improved housing options for military families. By taking care of the well-being of our service members and their loved ones, the bill aims to boost morale and retention rates within the military. Overall, the Ensuring Military Readiness Act of 2023 is a comprehensive piece of legislation that seeks to strengthen the US military and ensure that it remains a formidable force in an increasingly complex and challenging world. By investing in training, technology, and personnel support, the bill aims to enhance the readiness and effectiveness of our armed forces, ultimately ensuring the security and safety of the United States and its allies.