The proposed General Assembly Raised Bill No. 5294 seeks to modernize the military department's definitions and classifications by replacing gender-specific language with inclusive terms. It allows "persons" aged eighteen to forty-five, regardless of gender, to be subject to military duty and classified as part of the militia, thereby repealing previous provisions that restricted militia membership to male citizens and residents. The bill also broadens the eligibility criteria to include all citizens or residents intending to become citizens, as long as they are not legally exempt. Additionally, it modifies the structure of the military staff appointed by the Governor, removing specific rank requirements and allowing for a more diverse selection of officers from both state and federal armed forces.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a new "chargeable transient quarters and billeting account," which will be a separate, nonlapsing account for funds required by law, including proceeds from room service charges at Camp Nett. It removes references to "Niantic" regarding Camp Nett's location and specifies that the Adjutant General will manage the funds for billeting armed forces members at the facility. The legislation also includes amendments to existing laws, with most sections taking effect on October 1, 2026, and one section on January 1, 2027. Overall, the bill aims to clarify military duty requirements, enhance the Governor's discretion in military staff appointments, and officially rename the state military training facility to Camp Nett.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 27-1, 27-2, 27-15, 27-39a