President signs 'Don't Ask Don't Tell' repeal act into Law Published Dec. 22, 2010 American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON (AFNS) -- President Barack Obama signed the Don't Ask, Don't Tell Repeal Act of 2010 into law in a ceremony at the Department of the Interior Dec. 22. Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said defense officials will immediately proceed with the planning necessary to "carry out this change carefully and methodically, but purposefully."