MO HCR55

Supports the Military Readiness Enhancement Act to replace the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy with nondiscrimination based on sexual orientation in the military.

Notes that over 12,000 service members have been discharged under "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" since 1993, including approximately 800 in specialized roles such as Arabic translators, pilots, and intelligence personnel.

States that American taxpayers have spent more than $250 million implementing the policy by removing and replacing qualified service members based on sexual orientation.

Cites Department of Defense studies showing no correlation between sexual orientation and unit cohesion, and notes that allied nations including the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and Israel allow openly gay and lesbian service members.

Urges Congress to pass and the President to sign the Military Readiness Enhancement Act to allow lesbian, gay, and bisexual Americans to serve openly in the military.