Policy Guidance
In addition to conducting scholarly research and communicating our findings via the media, the Palm Center became a trusted resource for policymakers, military and political leaders, and journalists seeking a clear understanding of the substance and meaning of relevant policies and laws. Officials and the public also sought to learn what the research says about the impact a given policy change would likely have on the personnel, culture, morale, and overall mission of the military, as well as any legal impact it could have. Policy guidance documents are usually, but not always, shorter than in-depth research reports and scholarly studies, and may include brief memos and “explainers” highlighting and interpreting key text so as to demystify complicated policy or legal language.
Below are examples of Palm’s most effective policy guidance. The full collection remains available throughout our website.
Blueprint for Immediate Restoration of Inclusive Transgender Military Policy, July 26, 2020
Breaking Down the March 23, 2018 Transgender Military Ban, March 27, 2018
DoD is Ready to Accept Transgender Applicants, December 2017
Defense Department is Fully Capable of Completing Complex Studies in Six Months, April 6, 2016
Cost to VHA of Providing Transition-Related Surgery, December 2014
Report of the Planning Commission of Transgender Military Service, August 2014