Scroll Top

Tucker, Giblin & Mukherji Bill to Facilitate Selective Service Registration Clears Assembly Panel

Legislation Would Require Driver’s License Applicants to Consent to Register

Legislation Assembly Democrats Cleopatra Tucker, Tom Giblin and Raj Mukherji sponsored to facilitate registration for the draft was advanced by an Assembly panel on Monday.

The bill (A-148) would require men in New Jersey under age 26 to consent to registration with the United States Selective Service while applying for a driver’s license or permit or a non-driver identification card.

“In the event of a crisis that requires an increased level of manpower within our military, it’s important that the nation is prepared,” said Tucker (D-Essex). “Making Selective Service registration automatic for driver’s license applicants will facilitate our state’s ability to help guarantee the fortitude of America’s armed forces.”

Under the bill, the application for a special learner’s permit, an examination permit, a probationary driver’s license, a basic driver’s license or a non-driver identification card would include a notification that the applicant is consenting to Selective Service registration if required by federal law or, if under age 18, registration upon attaining age 18.

“Tying Selective Service registration to driver’s license applications will make it easier for New Jersey residents to comply with federal law,” said Giblin (D-Essex). “As is the case with applications for federal student financial aid, this legislation will help streamline registration instead of requiring young men to take a separate step.”

“While we hope the United States never has to reinstate the draft, the Selective Service System ensures that our nation will be ready for any situation,” said Mukherji (D-Hudson), a former Sergeant in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve. “This bill will simplify the process by allowing driver’s license applicants to fulfill their duty to register for the Selective Service.”

Failure to register or otherwise comply with the “Military Selective Service Act” is punishable by a fine of up to $250,000, imprisonment for up to five years or both. In addition, violators may be precluded from obtaining student financial aid, job training, government employment and U.S. naturalization.

The bill was advanced by the Assembly Military and Veterans’ Affairs Committee, of which Tucker is chair.