-- A group of lawmakers wants to give gay servicemembers the ability to testify before Congress without fearing they'll be discharged under the military's "don't ask, don't tell" policy.
A bill that would grant immunity from the policy was introduced in the House on Wednesday. It would prohibit retaliatory personnel actions against those who reveal their sexual orientations during congressional hearings.
Congress is expected to consider next year repealing the "don't ask, don't tell" ban on gays serving openly in the military.
Rep. Alcee Hastings of Florida, author of the immunity bill, says it's needed to ensure that reliable and relevant witnesses can testify.
The bill so far has 27 co-sponsors.
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