In her ruling, Judge Leonie Brinkema emphasized that the military's policies barring asymptomatic HIV-positive individuals with undetectable viral loads were not only irrational but also served to perpetuate stigma against those living with HIV, impeding recruitment goals.
The court's decision is significant as it highlights that military restrictions on service by individuals with HIV violate constitutional rights and could discourage qualified candidates from enlisting.
Brinkema pointed out that the Defense Department's argument regarding medical risks associated with HIV lacked substantial evidence, especially considering modern treatments that effectively eliminate transmission risks.
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