In the United States, the requirements for the military draft, also known as conscription, are governed by the Selective Service System. Here are the key requirements and details:
Who Must Register:
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Age and Gender:
- Men: All male U.S. citizens and male immigrant non-citizens residing in the U.S. who are ages 18 through 25 are required to register with the Selective Service System.
- Women: Currently, women are not required to register for the draft.
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Citizenship:
- U.S. citizens, including those living abroad.
- Immigrant non-citizens, including permanent residents (green card holders), refugees, asylum seekers, and undocumented immigrants.
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Exceptions:
- Men on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces.
- Cadets and midshipmen at the U.S. service academies.
- Some individuals with certain disabilities.
How to Register:
- Online: Registration can be completed on the Selective Service System's website.
- By Mail: A form (SSS Form 1) can be completed and mailed in.
- At the Post Office: Forms are available at any U.S. Post Office.
- When Applying for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): There is an option to register through the FAFSA application process.
Consequences of Failing to Register:
- Legal: Failing to register is a felony punishable by up to five years in prison and/or a fine of up to $250,000.
- Civil Penalties: Ineligibility for federal student aid, federal job training, federal employment, and U.S. citizenship for immigrants.
Draft Process (if reinstated):
- Lottery: If a draft is activated, a lottery system based on birth dates would be used to determine the order of call.
- Classification: Individuals called would be classified to determine their eligibility and deferments or exemptions.
- Induction: Those classified as eligible would be inducted into the military.
Deferments and Exemptions:
- Student Deferments: Full-time students may receive deferments until they complete their studies.
- Medical and Psychological: Those with certain physical or mental conditions.
- Conscientious Objectors: Individuals who oppose war based on religious or moral beliefs.
- Hardship: Individuals who provide essential family support or have other significant hardships.
Recent Developments:
- There have been discussions and legislative efforts to potentially include women in the draft registration, but as of now, no such change has been enacted.
For the most up-to-date information, it's recommended to check the official Selective Service System website.
Great news tbh. Even better would be to mandate service for the whole population. Our foreign policy would take a complete turn overnight.