ROSSYLN, VA – Acting Director of Selective Service Joel C. Spangenberg released the following statement on the proposed automated registration amendment to the FY25 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) passed by the House of Representatives on June 14, 2024:
“On June 14, the House of Representatives passed its version of the FY25 NDAA, which includes a provision for men, ages 18-25 years old, to be automatically registered with the Selective Service System when they turn age 18. Automated registration is consistent with current Federal law, which requires all men to register with the Selective Service System within thirty days of their 18th birthday. The registration requirement has continuously been in place since July 2, 1980.
The provision, if ultimately signed into law, removes the burden on individuals to register via our website or visit a local Post Office to manually register and remain compliant with Federal law. Until enacted, men must continue registering with Selective Service System within thirty days of their 18th birthday.
Automated registration will not reinstate a draft. Reinstating a draft would require a separate law to be passed to authorize conscription.”