New U.S. Defense Bill To Register Automatically Men 18-26 For Draft

By FrumNews.com 

The U.S. House of Representatives passed a measure on Friday that would automatically register all men aged 18 to 26 for selective service.

The measure Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) led the measure, is part of the annual National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which sets out the U.S. government’s military and national security priorities over the next fiscal year. 

The measure passed the House Armed Services Committee in May. The NDAA advanced through the committee with an overwhelming 57 to 1 vote.

While it hasn’t been invoked since the Vietnam War, it’s mandatory for all male citizens to register for the selective service, better known as the military draft, when they turn 18. Failure to register is classified as a felony and comes with a host of legal challenges.

Supporters of the amendment argue that it would reduce bureaucratic red tape, help U.S. citizens avoid unnecessary legal issues, and save taxpayer dollars spent prosecuting those cases.

“This will also allow us to rededicate resources — basically that means money — towards reading readiness and towards mobilization … rather than towards education and advertising campaigns driven to register people,” Rep. Houlahan said.

This year’s NDAA authorizes $895.2 billion in military spending, a $9 billion increase from fiscal 2024

It also includes funding for two new Virginia-class submarines and the establishment of a drone force within the U.S. Army.