The American Psychological Association said Thursday that there is decades' worth of scientific research demonstrating no threat to military readiness or morale if gays are allowed to serve openly.

APA president Carol Goodheart also said the time line requested by military leaders — a year to research the matter and another year to implement the change — is too long. Research supporting quicker repeal includes a Cornell University study, released in July, illustrating people's ineffectiveness at a task when trying to simultaneously conceal their sexual orientation.

"The military has proved itself willing, able, and effective in the integration of African Americans and women," Goodheart said in a statement on Thursday. "This experience can and should inform efforts to end the current situation in which gay and lesbian service members, who everyone acknowledges are currently serving, must conceal their sexual orientation to avoid being discharged."