The Pentagon is expected to announce on Thursday a softening of “don’t ask, don’t tell” rules, as promised, while a full review is under way. Only Congress can overturn the policy, but the military can make limited changes, like reforming the way it handles outings by a third party.

Update:

CNN:

The official said one of the changes will be that outings by third parties may no longer be automatic grounds for initiating separation proceedings, especially if it is proven that the person making the allegation has a grudge against the military member.

Gates’ announcement will focus on regulatory changes that can be made at the Pentagon without the approval of Congress, which has been debating whether to change the policy.

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