Benefits for LGBTQ Veterans (H 5443, S 837)

For decades, excellent military personnel were forced to leave the military on “less than honorable” discharges once it was it was made known that they identified as a part of the LGBTQ community. H 5443, introduced by Rep. Camille Vella-Wilkinson and S 837, introduced by Senator Dawn Euer, and supported by the ACLU, ensures that veterans discharged solely because of their sexual orientation or gender identity still qualify for state veterans’ benefits. This legislation passed both chambers and was signed by the governor at the end of June.