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

The Making of a Ban: How DTM-19-004 Works to Push Transgender People Out of Military Service, March 20, 2019

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

Arbitrary and  Capricious: Six Inconsistencies Distinguishing Military Medical Policies for Transgender and  Non-Transgender Personnel, October 2014

Report of the Planning Commission of Transgender Military Service, August 2014

The President’s Pleasant Surprise: How LGBT Advocates Ended Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell, 2013 (Journal of Homosexuality)

How We Won, Chapter 7, July 14, 2012

Report of the General/Flag Officers’ Study Group, 2008