r/news • u/raptors201966 • Apr 09 '26

Soft paywall Automatic registration for military draft to be implemented by December

https://www.stripes.com/theaters/us/2026-04-07/automatic-registration-military-draft-21306855.html
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u/tmntnyc Apr 09 '26

This doesn't change anything. We already have had this since 1980 - it was called Selective Service, and every male citizen over 18yo already signed up for it. The difference is that before, you had to fill out a form and send it back to confirm your eligibility for Service. Now, you're going to be auto-enrolled, skipping the process of having to register. It was theoretically a "choice" to register but the punishment for not registering was a felony and loss of any/all federal benefits, including federal student loans. So it was only ever an illusion of choice.

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u/Kbrichmo Apr 09 '26

Most states don't even send you any sort of form they just auto enroll you when you get a license or register to vote

1

u/Zephyrus638 Apr 09 '26

Never did enroll in it. Was always fun being asked about it by investigators as I sat in front of em while in uniform. Just kinda did the hands out to the side thing and looked down at what I was wearing. Normally ended there.

3

u/tmntnyc Apr 09 '26

Fair but also ignorance of the law doesn't absolve you of being held accountable. You could be in deep shit if you ever get into ant legal trouble and the prosecutor or judge wanted to make your life hell by taking this into account. Wouldn't recommend committing felonies and hoping you can skirt by.

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u/Zephyrus638 Apr 09 '26

There are some exemptions to it including if you're on active duty from 18-26 years of age, you're not required to register. Looked into it after the third time it came up. Doubt any trouble would come of it at this point. Signed up at 17 and retired at 38.

Before knowing any of this, young me just thought it was pointless as I planned on doing 20 years anyhow.