Heinrich Supports Decision To Lift Restrictions on Combat Positions for Women

WASHINGTON, D.C. (Feb. 3, 2016) - U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), a member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, discussed the decision to open all ground combat units to women with U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) officials during a committee hearing today. The hearing comes after the DoD announced the decision to lift restrictions on combat positions for women.

While questioning General Robert B. Neller, Senator Heinrich pointed out the broad consensus on the Armed Services Committee in support of opening up all jobs in combat units to women so long as women meet combat standards.

Senator Heinrich asked Secretary of the Navy Raymond E. Mabus Jr. to expand on programs where women have been particularly successful. Secretary Mabus pointed to the missile submarine and attack submarine positions.