José E. Serrano: “This may come to be known as the ``just in case bill'' because it takes out something that doesn't exist anywhere in a…”

“This may come to be known as the ``just in case bill'' because it takes out something that doesn't exist anywhere in a House bill. That is why I am opposed to this amendment. First, this is a policy issue that should be left to the Armed Services Committees. As you know, the Senate version of the FY 2017 National Defense Authorization Act included a change to military policy that would, for the first time, require young women to register for the draft. Defense Department leaders have already backed the idea of adding women to the draft, while emphasizing they do not see any scenario where a draft will actually happen. For the Record, no Americans have been pressed into involuntary service since the last draft ended in 1973. Furthermore, lawmakers have also included in the legislative language requiring a full review of the Selective Service System and possible ``alternatives'' to the current system. I believe, since the Department of Defense lifted the ban on women in combat roles, every American who is physically qualified should register for the draft or we should do away with it. I urge all Members to vote their beliefs on this issue. That is the proper way. Republican leadership did not allow this to be a vote on the defense bill. Now Members have a chance to deal with this issue and be on the record if they support Selective Service allowing women to be part of the draft. Now, we know that this is a touchy issue.…”