So, “in an effort to remove the stigma,” they are going to relax the rules. Gee, wonder why the rules are there in the first place. Could they possibly serve the national interest. And isn’t that more important than “removing” stigma? Perhaps we should also “remove the stigma” that is causing unfair discrimination against PEOPLE WHO WANT TO KILL US.
You seriously think every existing government rule effectively serves the government interest?
Actually, I think this is a good thing. Not every mental illness is serious. This would allow the government to examine the individuals on a case-by-case basis. My husband was an officer in the Air Force and left active duty in 1990. After 9/11, he tried to get back on active duty and was denied because he had been treated for depression. It is a shame, because he is a really patriotic and competent man and he had an excellent military record.