Mark Schauer on Homeland Security

Ensure veterans have access to the benefits they've earned

While Michigan has the 11th largest veterans population in the country, the state ranks 53rd in providing veterans benefits--behind Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and Guam. Mark believes we can and must do better. As Governor, Mark will work to ensure veterans have access to the benefits they've earned by strengthening state services that help veterans secure good jobs, quality health care, and affordable housing.

Repeal Don't-Ask-Don't-Tell, and reinstate discharged gays.

Repeals current Department of Defense policy [popularly known as "Don't-Ask-Don't-Tell"] concerning homosexuality in the Armed Forces. Prohibits the Secretary of Defense, and the Secretary of Homeland Security with respect to the Coast Guard, from discriminating on the basis of sexual orientation against any member of the Armed Forces or any person seeking to become a member. Authorizes the re-accession into the Armed Forces of otherwise qualified individuals previously separated for homosexuality, bisexuality, or homosexual conduct.

Nothing in this Act shall be construed to require the furnishing of dependent benefits in violation of section 7 of title 1, United States Code (relating to the definitions of 'marriage' and 'spouse' and referred to as the 'Defense of Marriage Act').