Senate passes amendments on sexual violence, mental health in the military
http://thehill.com/blogs/floor-action/senate/269911-senate-amendment-on-sexual-violence-in-the-military-passes
Senate passes amendments on sexual violence, mental health in the military
By Ramsey Cox - 11/28/12 03:28 PM ET
The Senate passed amendments to the defense bill by voice-vote Wednesday that would better protect members of the military who are victims of sexual violence and mental health issues.
Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) introduced the amendment, 3016, which would require each branch of the military to process sexual violence offenders and, if theyre found guilty, discharge them from military service.
Gillibrand said nearly one-third of those who commit a sex crime in the military remain in military service because branches have different ways of handling the situation.
Sexual violence in the military continues to occur at an alarming rate, Gillibrand said on the floor Wednesday. If one-third of sex offenders in the military are being retained, then clearly we must move forward.