The House of Representatives on Friday passed a measure automatically enrolling men ages 18 to 26 in the Selective Service.
This was part of the annual National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which sets the U.S. government’s military and national security priorities for the next fiscal year.
This year’s NDAA authorizes $895.2 billion in military spendingan increase of $9 billion from fiscal 2024.
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U.S. soldiers disembark inside the Camilo Osias Naval Base in Santa Ana, Cagayan province, northern Philippines, after participating in joint military exercises Monday, May 6, 2024.
Although it has not been invoked in more than half a century, it is mandatory for all male U.S. citizens to register for the Selective Service, also known as the military draft, when they reach the age of 18. a multitude of legal challenges.
Supporters of the amendment say it would cut red tape and help U.S. citizens avoid unnecessary legal problems, while reducing taxpayer dollars spent on prosecuting these cases.
It was led by Rep. Chrissy Houlahan, D-Pa., and was passed in the House Armed Services Committee’s version of the NDAA in May. The NDAA advanced through the committee by an overwhelming vote of 57-1.
Rep. Chrissy Houlahan spearheaded selective service measure (Getty Images)
“By using available federal databases, the (Selective Service) agency will be able to register all required individuals and thereby help ensure that any future military draft is fair and equitable,” Houlahan said during the debate. last month, according to Defense News.
“It will also allow us to reallocate resources – essentially money – to reading preparation and engagement…rather than education and advertising campaigns aimed at getting people signed up.”
The NDAA also provided for the largest military pay increase ever seen in history, with a 19.5% increase for junior enlisted troops and a 4.5% increase for others.
It also included funding for two new Virginia-class submarines and the creation of a drone force within the U.S. military, among other provisions.
Speaker Mike Johnson led the House through the NDAA on Friday (Getty Images)
The NDAA passed the House by a vote of 217-199, but is unlikely to pass the Senate.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., blasted the bill Friday afternoon. on the inclusion of amendments limiting funding for abortion, transgender medical care and diversity efforts.
“Unsurprisingly, the bill before the House today is loaded with anti-LGBTQ, anti-choice, anti-environment, and other divisive amendments that are guaranteed not to pass by the Senate,” Schumer said. “As we move forward through this year’s NDAA process, both parties will need to work together to pass bipartisan legislation that honors and respects all those who serve in our nation’s defense.”
