House Minority Whip Steny Hoyer said he is open to the idea of requiring women to register for the Selective Service.
“Women ought to be treated equally,” Hoyer, D-Md., said after telling reporters with a laugh, “How far do I want to go with this?”
Lawmakers voted last month to add an amendment to the annual defense authorization legislation that would require women to register for the military draft. Currently only males aged 18-25 years old are required to register.
Hoyer noted women are already playing significant roles in the military, including along the front lines.
“I think it would make sense to have eligible males or females register as long as you have registration,” Hoyer said.
House Speaker Paul Ryan, R-Wis., said he believes the selective service program should be examined for changes, but has not indicated whether he backs drafting women.
The House has not yet voted on the defense authorization bill that includes the Selective Service amendment.
