Lawmaker Introduces the Keith Nolan Air Force Deaf Demonstration Act. Good news for nurses?

 

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- On March 31, 2015, "Rep. Mark Takano (D-Calif.) introduced the Keith Nolan Air Force Deaf Demonstration Act, which would allow deaf and hard of hearing individuals to serve in the United States Air Force in a demonstration program. Original co-sponsors include Rep. Niki Tsongas, Rep.John Delaney, Rep. Ted Lieu, and Rep. Chris Van Hollen.

 

Currently, the Department of Defense sets medical standards for enlistment. Within the "hearing" section, there are requirements for hearing levels that would exclude an individual who is deaf. The section also excludes individuals who currently or historically use a hearing aid, or who have a cochlear implant.

 

The Keith Nolan Air Force Deaf Demonstration Act would create a demonstration program in the Air Force for 15-20 Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals who would otherwise qualify to serve in the Air Force."

 

Is this good news for nurses and other healthcare professionals who are d/Deaf and eager to serve in the Air Force?

 

http://www.military.com/daily-news/2015/03/31/lawmaker-introduces-the-keith-nolan-air-force-deaf-demonstration.html