Navy grants first-ever waiver under Trump's transgender military ban

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May 15, 2020 at 2:09 pm EDT | by Chris Johnson
Navy grants first-ever waiver under Trump’s transgender military ban

The U.S. Navy has granted the first-ever waiver under President Trump’s transgender military ban to an individual who had sued to remain in the service. The news was first reported by CNN.

The waiver was granted to the Jane Doe in the case against the transgender military ban filed in March by GLBTQ Advocates & Defenders and the National Center for Lesbian Rights. The anonymous Navy officer had served two extended tours of duty over nine years and faced discharge because she’s transgender.

Jennifer Levi, transgender rights project director for GLAD, confirmed in a statement the waiver was granted to her client,

“The ban has been in place for over a year and this is the first waiver to be granted,” Levi said.”While we are relieved that our client, a highly qualified Naval officer, will be able to continue her service, there are other equally qualified transgender service members who have sought waivers and are still in limbo, despite being perfectly fit to serve.”

Lt. Brittany Stephens, a Navy spokesperson, confirmed to the Washington Blade via email the waiver was granted.

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