Jasper County Democrat, Volume 20, Number 10, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 2 May 1917 — PROVISIONS OF ARMY MEASURE [ARTICLE]

PROVISIONS OF ARMY MEASURE

Selective Conscription Bill Carries $3,000,000,000 Appropriation. The selective conscription bill, as originally drafted, provides: For the immediate expansion of the regular army and the national guard to full war strength, and for the drafting into the federal service of the national guard. For the raising by draft of an additional 500,000 men, for the second 500,000 and for further recruit training units as may be deemed necessary.

For the raising of all troops provided for in„ the bill by selective draft of male citizens between 19 and 25 years old. (The house amendment makes the ages 21 to 40 and the senate 21 to 27.) For the exemption of selective draft of legislative, judicial and persons with dependent relatives. Provision is made also for the discretionary exemption of persons engaged in industries essential to war. (The house inserted an amendment allowing the President to exempt farmers also.)

For the registration of all persons subject to service under the act upon proclamation of the President. For volunteer enlistments in the regular army for the period of the war under qualifications now obtaining, except that the maximum limit is raised from 35 to 40. For regular army p&y of sls a mdnth. (The house inserted an amendment raising the pay to S3O a month, and the senate to $29.) For an appropriation of $3,000,000,000 for the first year’s operation of the act. (A house amendment eliminated this provision.) The senate adopted an amendment which would enable Colonel Roosevelt to lead an army to France.