Connecticut Veterans Legal Center is committed to honoring the service and sacrifice of LGBTQ+ Veterans.
We are providing the below documents as a resource of your rights in the VA Healthcare System, as well as some resources outside of the VA. These documents are accurate as of 1/24/2025, however they are subject to change. We encourage you to seek legal advice if you face a barrier in accessing care related to your sexual orientation or gender identity.
UPDATE (3/17/2025): On Friday, March 14, 2025, the VA rescinded the directive that provided gender affirming care for Veterans. According to NBC and others’ reporting, Veterans already receiving hormone treatment should continue to receive treatment. There will be no new treatment plans involving hormone therapy or other gender-affirming care. Veterans will also be required to use bathrooms and facilities that align with their “birth sex.”
CVLC stands with Trans and Intersex Veterans. If you are a Veteran living in Connecticut who is being denied care or humane treatment because of this policy, we may be able to help. Contact us at intakes@ctveteranslegal.org. You do not need a clinician referral if you are being denied care, and we will not contact the VA or other federal department without your expressed permission. Our services are 100% free to clients.
Modern Military Association, Minority Veterans of America, SPARTA, and Out in National Security have put out a useful statement that includes resources for those looking for community or support. You can read their statement and learn more here.
Please note that the information contained in this site is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be construed as legal advice on any subject matter.
CVLC serves low-income Veterans, regardless of discharge status, who live in Connecticut. If you think you may need our help with a legal issue, including but not limited to VA Healthcare access, we invite you to contact us at intakes@ctveteranslegal.org. You do not need a clinician referral if seeking a Discharge Upgrade or if you are being denied care at the VA because of discrimination.
Learn more about our screening and intake process here.
The Veterans Crisis Line is available 24/7 for free and confidential support. Call 988+1 or text 838255 for help.
The Trans Lifeline is a peer-run hotline providing anonymous support unaffiliated with the VA, DOD, or other government agency. Call or text 1-877-565-8860. Please note that hours are limited. Additional information available on their website.
"I feel revitalized with the confirmation that my country respects my service as I do. The CT Veterans Legal Center’s success in securing my discharge upgrade to Honorable has given me the opportunity to shed an anchor that I have carried for 39 years."
– Anonymous CVLC LGBTQ+ Client, Air Force Veteran
CVLC's LGBTQ+ Focused Services are Made Possible with Support From
LGBTQ+ Resources
LGBTQ+ VA Resources for Veterans
- VA Healthcare for Gay/Lesbian, Bisexual, and Queer Women (pdf)
- VA Healthcare for Gay, Bisexual, and Queer Men (pdf)
- VA Healthcare for Transgender Men and Transmasculine Individuals (pdf)
- VA Healthcare for Transgender Women and Transfeminine Individuals (pdf)
- VHA LGBTQ+ Health Program (from VA Website 01/23/2025)
- VHA Directive 1341: Providing Health Care for Transgender and Intersex Veterans (pdf)
- VHA Directive 1340: Provision of Health Care for Veterans Who Identify as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Queer (pdf)
LGBTQ+ Resources in Connecticut
Connecticut has a robust community support network for LGBTQ+ individuals including healthcare organizations, mental health services, and community nonprofits. Check out the list of resources put together by the Connecticut LGBTQ+ Justice & Opportunity Network here.
LGBTQ+ National Resources and Advocacy Groups
Connecticut Veterans Legal Center is an independent, non-profit organization (EIN number 27-0963659). We are committed to keeping our doors open to all who served. If you would like to show your support, please consider making a donation or becoming a monthly donor at: ctveteranslegal.org/donate.