SAN FRANCISCO, CA – Aaron Belkin, director of the Palm Center, released the following statement in response to the RAND report commissioned by the Pentagon to study transgender military service:

“While the Defense Secretary and the White House insist that inclusive policy for transgender troops is a ‘complicated issue,’ RAND’s new study on transgender military service reminds us of the few simple principles necessary to make any change in military personnel policy successful. In doing so, RAND confirms the findings of all of the Palm Center’s previous research: inclusive policy will not compromise readiness, will not be costly, and will not be difficult to formulate or implement. In fact, RAND highlights the real costs of the current ban: lower readiness from denial of health care and the loss of talented, trained personnel who want to serve their country. Perhaps most importantly, RAND’s research reminds us of the key lesson from the repeal of ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’: strong leadership and clear policy are the keys to smooth implementation. If leaders hold subordinates accountable for following the rules and treating colleagues with respect, and if the Pentagon formulates clear policy based on evidence, not personal opinion, then the transition will be successful.”