The Pentagon’s much-ballyhooed extension of benefits to same-sex couples may be scaled back a bit, as military heads said Wednesday they’re now mulling a plan to allow only legally married gays to take advantage.
A memo from the Defense Department obtained by The Associated Press said the change means that gay partners may not be allowed to sign a declaration form — basically saying they’re partners — as a condition of receiving the benefits, but instead would have to show documents proving they’re legally married.
The memo also said that Defense Department officials might allow 10 days of leave for military members to travel to states where gay marriage is legal, and wed, AP reported.
The memo was signed by Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel and circulated among top military leaders.
The benefits at issue include health care, housing and other military benefits extended to married heterosexual couples.
The memo is now being reviewed by the Justice Department, AP reported. The Pentagon won’t be changing its policy until the review is finished.
• Cheryl K. Chumley can be reached at cchumley@washingtontimes.com.
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