[Vision2020] Statement by Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel on Same-Sex Benefits

[Scott Dredge]

'...including same-sex spouses - are now able to obtain ID cards in every state.'

Since Idaho's constitution specifies 'A marriage between a man and a woman is the only domestic legal union that shall be valid or recognized in this state', this is in direct conflict with Dod ID card issuance to same sex spouses.  It's probably a non-issue since the feds trumps the states and the military has their own set of rules.

General question for the viz - does anyone see a path to striking down the unconstitutional Idaho same sex marriage ban?  Being that it's ridiculously restrictive (the conservatives who put this in place have a seething hatred towards those they struggle to semi-politely call 'ho <pause> mo <pause> sexuals'), it should be one of the easiest to pick off.  Just needs the right case to be prosecuted and run up the flag pole to the Supremes...

From: thansen at moscow.com
Date: Fri, 13 Dec 2013 09:59:24 -0800
To: vision2020 at moscow.com
Subject: [Vision2020] Statement by Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel on	Same-Sex Benefits

Courtesy of the U.S. Department of Defense at:
http://www.defense.gov/releases/release.aspx?releaseid=16422
--------------------------------- Statement by Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel on Same-Sex Benefits
"On Oct. 31, I called on the chief of the National Guard Bureau to work with several states to fully implement Department of Defense policy by providing DoD identification cards to all eligible military spouses, regardless of sexual orientation.  Following consultations between the National Guard Bureau and the adjutants general of the states, all eligible service members, dependents and retirees - including same-sex spouses - are now able to obtain ID cards in every state. All military spouses and families sacrifice on behalf of our country.  They deserve our respect and the benefits they are entitled to under the law.  All of DoD is committed to pursuing equal opportunities for all who serve this nation, and I will continue to work to ensure our men and women in uniform as well as their families have full and equal access to the benefits they deserve."
---------------------------------

Seeya 'round town, Moscow, because . . .
"Moscow Cares" (the most fun you can have with your pants on)http://www.MoscowCares.com  Tom HansenMoscow, Idaho
"There's room at the top they are telling you still But first you must learn how to smile as you kill If you want to be like the folks on the hill."
- John Lennon
 

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