Gov. Rick Perry
Mississippi has joined Texas in refusing to process applications for military ID cards for same-sex spouses. Texas has a total ban on processing applications. Mississippi won’t issue applications from state-owned offices.
Republican Texas Gov. Rick Perry weighed in on the controversy and said Texas Military Forces is a state agency and must obey state law.
The Oklahoma National Guard only received one inquiry the first day applications were being accepted. That couple is not yet married.
“As long as the soldier presents that marriage certificate or license, then we would treat that claim just like we would any other soldier that brings in a marriage license or certificate,” Oklahoma National Guard spokesman Col. Max Moss said.
The American Military Partner Association, a group that supports spouses of gay and lesbian troops and veterans, launched a petition targeting Perry: “Tell Governor Rick Perry to Stop Playing Politics with our Military Families in Texas!” and encouraged signers to swamp his office with calls.
“Our military families have enough challenges to deal with. The last thing they need is more discrimination from Governor Rick Perry of Texas!” the petition states. “Under his leadership, the Texas National Guard is refusing to enroll same-sex military spouses for military benefits at state supported military facilities. Tell Governor Perry to stop playing politics with our military families! Sign the petition then call his office at (512) 463-1782 or (512) 463-2000.”
Sign it by going here.