The House of Representatives recently passed a measure that automatically registers men between the ages of 18 and 26 for selective service as part of the annual National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This act outlines the U.S. government’s military and national security priorities for the upcoming fiscal year. The NDAA for this year authorizes $895.2 billion in military spending, which is a $9 billion increase from the previous fiscal year.
Although the military draft hasn’t been utilized in over 50 years, it is mandatory for all male U.S. citizens to register for selective service when they reach the age of 18. Failure to register is considered a felony and can lead to various legal challenges. Supporters of this amendment believe that automatic registration would streamline the process, reduce bureaucratic hurdles, and prevent unnecessary legal issues, ultimately saving taxpayer dollars.
The initiative was championed by Rep. Chrissy Houlahan from Pennsylvania and was included in the House Armed Services Committee’s version of the NDAA in May. The committee overwhelmingly passed the NDAA with a 57 to 1 vote. Houlahan emphasized that by utilizing existing federal databases, the Selective Service agency can efficiently register all eligible individuals, ensuring fairness and equity in any potential future military draft.
In addition to the automatic registration provision, the NDAA also includes the largest-ever military pay raise in history. This raise entails a 19.5% increase for junior enlisted troops and a 4.5% increase for other personnel. Furthermore, the NDAA allocates funding for the construction of two new Virginia-class submarines and the establishment of a drone force within the U.S. Army, among other provisions.
The NDAA passed the House with a vote of 217 to 199, but it faces uncertainty in the Senate. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer criticized the bill for including amendments that restrict funding for abortion, transgender medical care, and diversity initiatives. Schumer emphasized the need for bipartisan collaboration to pass legislation that respects all individuals serving in defense of the nation.
Overall, the passage of the automatic draft registration measure and the comprehensive NDAA highlights the government’s commitment to national security and military readiness. The provisions included in the bill aim to modernize and strengthen the U.S. military, ensuring that it remains well-equipped to address evolving threats and challenges in the years to come.