H.R. 4752 American Conscription

[kentuckyfchicken]

http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bill.xpd?bill=h109-4752

Im no expert on the process of law, but this hit me as rather shocking.

[CalHunter]

Official Title: To provide for the common defense by requiring all persons in the United States, including women, between the ages of 18 and 42 to perform a period of military service or a period of civilian service in furtherance of the national defense and homeland security, and for other purposes.

I know several people have commented on how young people should be required to do something for their country. I'm not sure that making this madatory is the best idea. I think it would be a better idea to create these avenues for civilian service to our country so that willing young people can have a chance to serve in some way besides the military. I think keeping the military and this civilian service voluntary will result if fewer problems and a more productive workforce, i.e. they want to be there.

[Aught Six]

Rangel's been pushing this bill for several years now. I can't tell if he's truly serious or just trying to make waves. Seems a lot of Democratsin Congressare willing to play whatever games are necessary to get the public riled up against Bush, the Republicans, and the Iraq War.

This bill makes perfect sense in that regard. If Rangel and his fellow Democrats can get this through, then the youngervoting blocks (18-30 year oldsin particular) who don't support military action around the world will show up at the polls in force.

Fat chance of that happening though. I sincerely doubt it would even reach the Senate,but even if itsomehow makesit to the White House, Bush's signature would be political suicide for the GOP. Very unlikely scenario across the board.

On a personal level, I think the draft should be the last option for increasing forces in a time of war. Unless our volunteer military is somehow wiped out, I'dprefer tostick withthose who have some motivation to serve other than avoidance of amilitary prison sentence. We don't need unmotivated, half-&$#@ soldiers fighting for our country.

[kevin1]

It won't fly for the simple reason that the rank and file American won't stand up for their own country , sad , but true . Take a poll and you'll see what I mean .

[Whitehorse]

Just to make waves. Our volunteer military is the best by far that is currently on the earth - likely the best ever! They are doing a great job, & the democrats - in their hatred of Pres. Bush - trying to pizz everything up...