Keating Cosponsors Two Amendments to Aid Victims of Sexual Assault in the Military

Press Release

Today, the House of Representatives will consider two amendments cosponsored by Rep. Bill Keating to the 2014 Defense Appropriations Act that would aid victims of sexual assault in the military. The amendments' lead sponsor is Rep. Jackie Speier (D-CA).

The first amendment aims to curb the rampant misuse of mental health diagnoses to administratively discharge survivors of sexual assault. Since 2001, the military has discharged more than 31,000 service members on the grounds that they had personality disorders. This amendment aims to identify individuals that were improperly separated from the military on the grounds of a disorder subsequent to reporting a sexual assault and correct their record.

The second amendment seeks to provide the proper training needed to appropriately investigate sexual assaults. An investigation by the Inspector General of the Department of Defense revealed that of the over 500 cases of sexual assaults they audited, only 83 were without deficiencies in their investigations. This amendment will provide $10 million so that those investigating sexual assaults in the military are properly trained.

"Some protections for victims of sexual assault in the military have already been put in place, but more still needs to be done," said Rep. Bill Keating. "The fact that victims of sexual assault were discharged as suffering from mental health issues is a disgrace. And the further fact that those investigating these assaults are not properly trained is a major setback that must be rectified for the appropriate handling of these cases in the future. As a former District Attorney, I have long worked to protect victims of abuse and violence. These amendments are vital to ensuring an environment where there is justice for all victims."

Rep. Keating is a member of the Congressional Military Sexual Assault Prevention Caucus.

Source