Substitute House Bill No. 5294 amends the current laws regarding military duty in the state militia by expanding the eligibility criteria to include all persons aged 18 to 45, regardless of gender. The bill repeals existing language that specifies only male citizens and residents are subject to military duty, replacing it with a more inclusive definition that encompasses all individuals who are citizens or residents intending to become U.S. citizens. Additionally, the bill clarifies that the National Guard consists of both the Army National Guard and the Air National Guard, ensuring that the terminology reflects the current structure of military forces.

The changes will take effect on October 1, 2026, and aim to modernize the state's militia laws by promoting gender equality in military service. The bill does not have any fiscal impact on the state or municipalities, as it simply updates the eligibility requirements without imposing additional costs. Overall, this legislation aligns with the Adjutant General's recommendations and reflects a commitment to inclusivity within the state's military framework.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 27-1, 27-2, 27-15, 27-39a
VA Joint Favorable Substitute: 27-1, 27-2
File No. 137: 27-1, 27-2