2011 Defense Bill in Senate Limbo
The Hill reports:
The fate of the 2011 defense bills is in limbo even as the new fiscal year quickly approaches.
The next few weeks will be tense for the defense community, which is still in the dark about when the Senate will take up a defense authorization bill.
The majority leader’s office says that the 2011 defense authorization bill is on the list of “possible items” that the upper chamber may consider during the upcoming work period.
Senate Armed Services Committee ranking member Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) objects to bringing the bill to the floor because he opposes two provisions: one that would repeal the military’s ban on openly gay service members, and a second that would allow abortions to be performed at military hospitals, so long as federal funds aren't used.
McCain's objection could be overcome with a motion to proceed, followed by a cloture vote to end debate — a move that would require 60 votes, and thus the support of at least one Republican.
The uncertainty over the 2011 defense authorization measure is prompting gay rights groups to up their pressure on senators and party leaders to take up the bill. The legislation contains a provision that would repeal the military’s ban on openly gay service members, known as “Don’t ask, don’t tell.”The activists want to see the Senate take up the 2011 defense authorization bill the week of Sept. 20. Otherwise, they fear that the much-awaited repeal of the Clinton-era law may be stopped in its tracks. If the bill doesn’t move in September and slides into the period after the election, Republicans have made it clear they will only agree to a continuing resolution to keep funding the Defense Department.
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