Pentagon Limits Transgender Troops' Rights to Appeal Military Dismissals

The Pentagon has issued a new policy that significantly limits the ability of transgender service members, banned under President Donald Trump's administration, to appeal dismissals and continue serving. The policy allows military commanders to override decisions by separation boards that recommend transgender troops remain in service, breaking from the previous practice of board independence. Additionally, transgender personnel are required to attend separation board hearings in uniforms matching their birth-assigned gender; failure to comply or appear can negatively impact their case. This directive follows Trump's executive order that restricts military service to individuals identifying strictly as male or female, reversing protections established by the previous administration. Advocates argue the policy creates substantial barriers, effectively predetermining outcomes and discouraging transgender troops from attending hearings. The Pentagon has refrained from detailed comments due to ongoing litigation challenging these measures.