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EQUITY Act

3/17/2025, 12:53 PM

Summary of Bill HR 1543

Bill 119 HR 1543, also known as the "Military Anti-Discrimination Act," aims to amend title 10 of the United States Code to prohibit discrimination in the Armed Forces. The bill seeks to ensure that all members of the military are treated fairly and equally, regardless of their race, gender, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic.

Specifically, the bill prohibits discrimination in areas such as recruitment, promotion, and assignment within the military. It also prohibits discrimination in training, education, and benefits provided to military personnel. Additionally, the bill includes provisions to address and prevent harassment and retaliation against individuals who report discrimination.

The goal of this legislation is to create a more inclusive and diverse military force that values the contributions of all its members. By prohibiting discrimination and promoting equality, the bill aims to strengthen the effectiveness and morale of the Armed Forces. Overall, Bill 119 HR 1543 represents a significant step towards ensuring that all individuals serving in the military are treated with respect and dignity, regardless of their background or identity.

Congressional Summary of HR 1543

Equal and Uniform Treatment in the Military Act or the EQUITY Act 

This bill prohibits discrimination within the Department of Defense (DOD) against individuals on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, gender identity, or sexual orientation.

A qualification established or applied related to eligibility for service in any of the Armed Forces must only consider (1) the ability of an individual to meet the general occupational standards for service, and (2) the particular military occupational specialty.

On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order titled Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government, declaring that the United States recognizes two sexes (male and female) and these sexes are not changeable.

On January 27, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order titled Prioritizing Military Excellence and Readiness, expressing that the policy for troop readiness is inconsistent with gender dysphoria or the use of pronouns that inaccurately reflect an individual’s biological sex. Further, the order directs DOD to update specific guidance documents related to medical standards for military service to reflect the purpose and policy of the order.

Current Status of Bill HR 1543

Bill HR 1543 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since February 24, 2025. Bill HR 1543 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the House on February 24, 2025.  Bill HR 1543's most recent activity was Referred to the House Committee on Armed Services. as of February 24, 2025

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 1543

Total Number of Sponsors
2
Democrat Sponsors
2
Republican Sponsors
0
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
9
Democrat Cosponsors
9
Republican Cosponsors
0
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 1543

Primary Policy Focus

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 1543

To amend title 10, United States Code, to prohibit discrimination in the Armed Forces.
To amend title 10, United States Code, to prohibit discrimination in the Armed Forces.

Comments

Halo Hopkins profile image

Halo Hopkins

499

8 months ago

I think this bill is a good thing for our country. It will help to promote fairness and equality for all Americans. I believe that everyone deserves to be treated with respect and dignity, regardless of their background or identity. This bill is a step in the right direction towards creating a more inclusive society. Who do you think will benefit the most from this bill?

Brycen Donovan profile image

Brycen Donovan

451

9 months ago

This bill is a disaster. How will it impact our military readiness and effectiveness?