Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) has made a historic move by introducing a provision in the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that mandates draft registration for women. This groundbreaking policy marks the first time in U.S. history that the Selective Service System’s requirements will include women.
Under the new provision, men and women aged 18 to 26 will be automatically registered for the selective service using existing federal databases. This change aims to streamline the registration process, reduce government spending on registration campaigns, and eliminate legal consequences for failing to register.
Senate’s Proposal and Legislative Context
The Senate’s proposal follows the House of Representatives’ version of the NDAA, which includes automatic draft registration for men but does not mandate it for women. The inclusion of women in the draft registration has ignited a heated debate. Proponents argue that it is a necessary step towards gender equality, ensuring that the burden of national defense is shared more equitably. Critics view it as an unnecessary expansion of government authority.
Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, and Senator Roger Wicker (R-MS), the committee’s Ranking Member, have emphasized the bipartisan support for the bill, despite Reed’s concerns over budget caps and potential impacts on military funding. The committee advanced the NDAA with a strong 22-3 vote, reflecting significant support for its provisions, including the draft registration for women.
Divergent Views and Legislative Votes
The House version of the NDAA, introduced by Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) and endorsed by House Armed Services Committee Chair Mike Rogers (R-AL), passed with a vote of 217 to 199. The measure saw overwhelming Republican support, though notable dissenters included Marjorie Taylor Greene (GA), Thomas Massie (KY), and Matt Rosendale (MT). Conversely, the majority of Democrats opposed the bill, with six breaking ranks to vote in favor.
Broader Implications and Fierce Opposition
The proposal to include women in draft registration adds a new dimension to the ongoing debate about military preparedness and gender roles. Following the decision to open all combat roles to women in 2015, this change reflects a broader trend towards gender inclusivity in the military.
Despite this, the proposal has faced staunch opposition from some lawmakers. Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX) has been particularly vocal, stating, “You can go straight to hell. Over my dead body,” emphasizing his stance in defense of his daughter. Rep. Mike Davis (R-UT) echoed this sentiment, asserting, “We will not draft women. I stand with [Chip Roy] — this will happen over my dead body.”
Comprehensive Provisions in the NDAA
The NDAA is a comprehensive defense policy bill that includes various provisions aimed at enhancing military readiness and support for service members. This year’s bill features a significant pay raise for military personnel, new security initiatives in the Indo-Pacific, and support for advanced technologies like counter-drone defenses and artificial intelligence.
Next Steps and Ongoing Debate
The process of passing the NDAA involves multiple steps. Following approval by the Senate Armed Services Committee, the bill must be debated and voted on by the full Senate. The House and Senate must then reconcile their versions of the bill in a bicameral conference committee before a final version is sent to the President for signature.
The proposal to include women in draft registration signifies a profound shift in U.S. defense policy. As the bill moves forward, it will undoubtedly continue to spark debate among lawmakers, military officials, and the public. This landmark change reflects ongoing discussions about gender equality, national security, and the evolving role of women in the military.
