US shouldn't draft women – or men. We need to keep an all-volunteer military.

The House of Representatives recently passed a bill that would automatically register men ages 18 to 25 for the Selective Service, the vehicle for conscripting soldiers if the draft were ever reinstated. The Senate Armed Forces Committee then passed a version of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that would call for women to register for the draft.

While the United States has not had a draft since 1973, the military faces significant recruitment challenges, which has revived the debate about whether compulsory service is once again necessary.

The Selective Service System requires men ages 18 to 25 to register. However, women have been excluded from the requirement because until 2013 they were not allowed to fill combat roles. But the last restrictions on women in combat were lifted in 2016.

The Senate version of the NDAA, if signed into law, would be a culmination of these changing views, recognizing that women are equally capable and willing to serve their country in various capacities. The legislative change aligns with the military's ongoing efforts to promote gender equality within its ranks.

Military recruitment numbers have declined

The legislation also comes at a time when military service isn’t the most desirable employment opportunity for Americans. Recruitment numbers have declined in recent years, influenced by factors that include a robust job market, changing societal values and concerns over military lifestyle and safety.

The decline in recruitment numbers shows that new, innovative approaches are needed to attract young Americans to serve in the armed forces.

“My great-grandfather was drafted into three battles during the American Revolution, as a prior enslaved, free Black man in 1777," said Brandi Jones, a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and an active-duty Marine Corps spouse. “I have a daughter, she’s been a military child her entire life. She has already sacrificed so much for our nation and I am proud of that."

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"Now that she’s an adult," Jones said, "I want her to have the freedom to decide whether she wants to become a service member.”

With low unemployment, easier access to higher education and job training programs, and few overt threats to national security, the benefits of military service aren't as enticing as they used to be. This means the military will need to improve its pay and benefits to increase recruitment.

For example, expanding and promoting the educational opportunities provided by the military, such as the GI Bill, can be a powerful lure. Enhanced scholarships, student loan forgiveness, more partnerships with higher education institutions and more comprehensive work credits also can attract recruits seeking educational advancement.

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Higher pay would attract more recruits

It's also a fact that many military members are grossly underpaid. Making compensation more competitive with civilian careers is crucial.

So, too, are comprehensive benefits packages, including better health care, housing and retirement plans. More professional development opportunities within the military can appeal to those seeking long-term career growth.

Another essential step involves creating a more inclusive and supportive environment. The military needs to address systemic issues of discrimination and its history of toxic patriarchal culture. Sustained initiatives to promote well-being, diversity and inclusivity will help foster a thriving military culture.

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Promoting the sense of community and identity that comes with military service also can be a powerful motivator for new recruits. Many people join the military to find a sense of belonging, purpose and the opportunity to be part of something larger than themselves.

Requiring women to register for the Selective Service would be a significant step toward gender equality in national defense. However, it also raises critical questions about the role of women in the military and the ethics of Selective Service in general.

The military's strength lies in its all-volunteer force, where men and women willingly choose to serve. Compulsory service could lead to a less motivated and less cohesive military, which would endanger national security.

The better approach is to make military service a more attractive option for women and men who freely choose to enlist.

Marla Bautista is a military fellow columnist for USA TODAY Opinion.

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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Will US draft women? An all-volunteer military is still right choice