Owens Introduces Women’s Choice in Service Act

Sep 29, 2021
Congress
Press

Washington, D.C. – Today, in response to a provision in the National Defense Authorization Act for FY22 that requires women between the ages of 18 and 26 to register for the selective service, Reps. Burgess Owens (UT-04), Claudia Tenney (NY-22), Michelle Steel (CA-48), Michelle Fischbach (MN-07), and Chris Stewart (UT-02) introduced the Women’s Choice in Service Act. The bill amends the Military Selective Service Act and allows women to opt-in to the draft.

“Amid Congress’ work to fund and support America’s armed services, an amendment forcing women to register for the draft was passed with no opportunity for discussion or debate on the floor, blindsiding constituents and stakeholders in Utah’s Fourth District,” said Rep. Owens. “As a father to five daughters and grandfather of eleven girls, I believe that women should not be forced to serve, but rather celebrated for their heroic contributions to our country’s military.”

“I’ve heard from many constituents who have concerns regarding this provision of the NDAA, and I share them. I thank Congressman Owens for taking the lead on this issue,” said Rep. Tenney. “Women make tremendous contributions as members of the Armed Forces, and I celebrate their incredible achievements and service. This legislation ensures that women have the opportunity to serve in the future but that they be given the right to make the decision for themselves.”

“This perverse mandate has no place in the NDAA, or in any legislation,” said Rep. Chris Stewart. “As a former member of the armed forces, I have proudly served alongside both men and women. I admire anyone who is brave enough to serve their country. And in time of war, I would certainly encourage all able-bodied Americans to do exactly that. But there is no justification for the federal government requiring that America’s women take up arms. I hope that both my Republican and Democrat colleagues see the logistical disruptions this provision would have to service qualifications, force readiness, and more.”

The full text of H.R. 5392 can be found here.

###

Recent Posts


Sep 30, 2024
Greatest Hits

WATCH: OWENS Reacts To ICE Non-Detained Docket Release



Sep 27, 2024
Press

MEDIA ADVISORY: Owens to Host Annual Hispanic Heritage Congressional Recognition Ceremony

WEST JORDAN – On Monday, September 30, Rep. Burgess Owens (UT-04) will host the 2024 Hispanic Heritage Congressional Recognition Ceremony, his third annual event at the Utah State Capitol to honor 40 Utahns from across the Fourth District for their service to our communities.  What: 2024 Hispanic Heritage Congressional Recognition Ceremony When: 6:30 PM MT […]



Sep 25, 2024
Congress

House Committee Approves Owens’ Bill to Honor Sgt. Bill Hooser

WASHINGTON — The House Committee on Oversight and Reform passed legislation introduced by Congressman Burgess Owens (UT-04) to rename the Santaquin Post Office in honor of Sergeant Bill Dean Hooser of the Santaquin City Police Department, who was killed in the line of duty on May 5, 2024.  “Sgt. Bill Hooser made the ultimate sacrifice […]