Speech #650153599

We have already passed a law permitting Enghmnd and France to establish recruiting stations in the United States and enlist their subjects. but this has not worked very well. as few have volunteered. and they could only be taken if they volunteered to go. This act can work no hardship on those who have resided in the United States a sufficient time and are otherwise qualified. )ecause they can file their declaration and become citizens. and be subject to the draft law. and be relieved from the penalties of this act. Section 2 of the act of May 18..1917the draft lawprovides: * * * SucAh draft as herein provided shall be based upon liability to militar vservice of all male citizens or male persons not allen enetiiies who have declared their intentionoto become citizens between the ages of 21 and 30 years. * * * lIence. an alien who has resided in the United States for two years and upward and has failed to take out his naturalization papers. after this act becomes a law. must either file his declaration at once and become subject to the draft or be deported. He can no longer claim exemption from military service and continue to reside in the United States. enjoy the protection of our laws. the unequaled liberties and opportunity for gaining a livelihood and making money. and bear none of the burdens of our citizenship. as they now are doing. This act therefore works no hardship.