August M
Moments of international uncertainty often revive memories of an era many Americans thought was over. Although the United States ended compulsory military service more than half a century ago, public discussion about the draft resurfaces whenever the risk of a wider conflict enters the conversation.
The last U.S. military draft took place in 1973, yet the legal framework behind it has never been dismantled. That lingering structure fuels both concern and confusion about who could be affected if the country faced a major war.
Law still exists
Federal law allows the U.S. government to reinstate conscription, but only after Congress passes legislation and the president authorizes it.
According to Newsner, this legal threshold is significant. Registration alone does not mean a draft is active, and lawmakers would need to act before anyone could be compelled into service.
Who must register
Under current rules, most men living in the United States are required to register with the Selective Service System once they turn 18. This obligation applies to citizens and non-citizens alike.
Newsner reports that undocumented immigrants are also required to register. Those who fail to do so may face penalties ranging from fines and prison sentences to restrictions on government benefits, education aid, and certain jobs.
Common misconceptions
One widespread belief is that a draft could be imposed immediately during a crisis. In reality, experts emphasize that the modern U.S. military relies on volunteers, and conscription would only be considered if those numbers proved insufficient.
Another misunderstanding is that everyone would be called at once. In practice, the Selective Service is designed to limit call-ups to specific age groups, depending on military needs.
Priority groups
If a draft were authorized, selection would be determined by a lottery system based on birth dates. Selective Service guidelines state that men turning 20 during the lottery year would be prioritized, with other ages considered only if necessary.
Those selected would undergo evaluations before any induction, and only individuals deemed fit would move forward.
A system in reserve
Officials stress that there is no active draft in the United States today. The Selective Service System exists as a contingency, not as a signal that conscription is imminent.
For now, it remains a reminder of how national policy can shift during extraordinary times.
Sources: Newsner, Selective Service System
